The Grand Place in Brussels is the heart of the city offering architectural beauty, rich history and a variety of cultural attractions, making it a top tourist destination in Belgium.
The Grand Place in Brussels is one of the most iconic places in Europe, renowned for its architectural beauty and the long history that surrounds it. Located in the heart of Brussels, this charming square has been the center of politics, culture, and economy since the Middle Ages.
With magnificent buildings surrounding it, The Grand Place offers a stunning view that combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.
Not only that, The Grand Place also holds a deep history, from the bustling market in the 11th century to important events that occurred throughout Belgium’s history. Here is various information about The Grand Place that you should know.
History of The Grand Place
The Grand Place has a long history that dates back to the 11th century, when the area was originally a bustling marketplace. Initially, this market was used for trading essential goods such as spices, cloth, and agricultural products.
In the 13th century, the area began to develop into a political and economic center, becoming an important meeting place for merchants, politicians, and community leaders.
In the 15th century, The Grand Place began to be surrounded by grand buildings built by wealthy merchants and city leaders. Many of these buildings reflect Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, with exquisite detail and ornamentation.
In the 17th century, the square witnessed several important events in Belgian history, including an attack by the French army in 1695 that nearly destroyed the entire square.
Despite the damage, the citizens of Brussels were determined to rebuild The Grand Place, eventually restoring it to its present beauty.
Things to do Brussels include exploring this iconic square, immersing yourself in its rich history, and admiring the stunning architecture that makes it one of the city’s most beloved landmarks.
To this day, The Grand Place remains the center of activity in Brussels, hosting festivals, fairs, concerts and various other cultural events throughout the year.
Tourists who visit can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery, but also feel the strong historical atmosphere that has existed for centuries.
Tourist Attractions at The Grand Place
1. Brussels City Hall (Hôtel de Ville)
One of the most striking buildings in The Grand Place is the magnificent Brussels City Hall, built in a striking Gothic style. It is known for its tall bell tower, which offers incredible views of the city of Brussels.
Visitors can admire the ornate details on the City Hall’s facade and explore some of its interiors, which are open to the public. The bell tower can also be climbed for a bird’s eye view of the city.
2. Maison du Roi (King’s House)
Maison du Roi or King’s House is a historic building located on the north side of The Grand Place. Today, it houses the Brussels City Museum, which displays a collection of arts, crafts, and artifacts that illustrate the city’s long history.
Visitors can see interesting collections relating to the history of Brussels, including traditional clothing, paintings, and antiques.
3. Museum of the City of Brussels
In addition to the Maison du Roi, the Museum of the City of Brussels is also located in The Grand Place area. This museum focuses more on the history and culture of Brussels, providing an overview of the development of the city over time.
Here, visitors can learn more about important events that took place in Brussels, including the struggle for Belgian independence and the city’s contribution to European culture.
4. Manneken Pis
Around The Grand Place, you can find one of the most famous statues in Brussels, Manneken Pis. This small statue depicts a boy urinating and has become a symbol of the city of Brussels.
This statue has an interesting history and often wears various unique costumes that are displayed during certain events. Despite its small size, Manneken Pis remains a major attraction for tourists visiting Brussels.
The Grand Place Location Access & Ticket Prices
The Grand Place is located in the heart of Brussels, making it very accessible to visitors. You can reach it in a variety of ways, whether by foot, public transportation, or taxi.
The Grand Place is also located close to several other Brussels attractions, such as the Manneken Pis, Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, and the Royal Palace of Brussels, making it a great location to explore. For visitors who drive, there are several parking facilities around the area for easy access.
To visit the various buildings in The Grand Place, ticket prices vary depending on the attraction you visit. Most buildings, such as Brussels City Hall and the King’s House, have affordable admission, with tickets starting at around €5 to €10.
However, some museums may charge additional fees for admission, especially if there are special exhibitions. There are also several buildings that can be accessed for free, such as enjoying the view from the outside and exploring the area around the square.
Tips for Visitors to The Grand Place
1. Plan Your Visiting Time
The Grand Place is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Brussels, especially during the holiday season or when festivals are taking place. To avoid crowds, make sure you plan your visit outside of peak hours or check the schedule of ongoing events.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Since The Grand Place is a large open area, you will be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes to make your trip more enjoyable.
3. Beware of Valuables
The Grand Place is a very busy tourist spot, so always be aware of your belongings. Make sure to keep your valuables, such as wallets and cell phones, safe.
4. Enjoy Festivals and Cultural Events
The Grand Place frequently hosts interesting festivals and cultural events throughout the year. If possible, visit The Grand Place during a special event to experience a livelier and more festive atmosphere.
5. Taste Local Cuisine
When visiting The Grand Place, don’t miss the opportunity to sample local cuisine. Try the famous Belgian waffles, delicious Belgian chocolate or a glass of delicious Belgian beer at one of the cafes or restaurants around the square.
6. Use Public Transportation
If you don’t have a private vehicle, take advantage of Brussels’ public transportation system. Metro stations and various buses can take you directly to The Grand Place with ease.
7. Explore The Grand Place
After exploring The Grand Place, take some time to explore the surrounding area. Brussels has many interesting tourist attractions such as the Atomium, Royal Palace, and Parc du Cinquantenaire which are also worth visiting.
8. Maintain Cleanliness
As a visitor, remember to keep the area clean and respect the surrounding environment. Avoid leaving litter and make sure you do not damage any buildings or historical sites around The Grand Place.
The Grand Place is a must-visit tourist destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Brussels’ history and culture.
With a variety of interesting attractions, from historical buildings, museums, to festivals and cultural events, The Grand Place offers an unforgettable experience.
Tourist Attractions in Belgia are known for their rich history and cultural significance, and The Grand Place is one of the must-visit destinations.
Plan your visit well, enjoy the architectural beauty, and don’t forget to sample the delicious local cuisine while you’re in this stunning square.
