BRUSSELS GRAND PLACE IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SQUARE IN EUROPE:
Many cities in Europe claim to have the most beautiful main square and Brussels’ Grand Place is up there as one of the most beautiful. As we stand in the middle of the square, surrounded by ornate 17th century architecture, I must say that the Grand Place or Grote Markt is a grand place indeed and what a magnificent place from which to begin any visit of the Belgian capital.
Brussels Grand Place
The Grand Place is in the Lower Town of Central Brussels, traditionally the less effluent of the two main sections of the centre. Nevertheless the Grand Place is the historical and commercial heart of Brussels.
What made an impression on us was the rich guildhouses and ornate and harmonious Flemish Renaissance buildings that surround the square.
Most of these buildings were rebuilt in the 17th century after French cannon fire in 1695 destroyed all but the town hall and a couple of guild facades.
Grand Place Buildings
Starting from the north-east corner of Grand Place and moving clockwise, the magnificent buildings of Grand Place include:
The Grand Place has been a venue for open-air markets since the 11th century and today many of popular Brussels events take place on this square, including the Belgian Beer Weekend, the Tapis des Fleur and Christmas markets.
See more photos of Grand Place Here.
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