Grand Place, Brussels

The Grand Place (also known as De Grote Markt) is located in the heart of Brussels Old Town and is one of Europe's best-preserved. The fine architecture of the square's elegant Gildehuizen (guild homes), with their spectacular gables, pilasters, and balustrades, ornately carved brickwork, and rich gold adornment, is responsible for much of the square's attractive character.

The homogeneity of Grand Place's Baroque style, with some Flemish influences, is its defining characteristic. The brief period of construction here achieves architectural unity, with the majority of buildings constructed between 1696 and 1700.The Grand Place, on the other hand, experienced a considerably older history. It was founded in the 11th century and quickly evolved into the city's political and commercial core. The Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) is the most well-known structure in the square, built-in 1402 to compete with the Stadhuis in Bruges.

Several spectacular rooms can be found inside Grand Place. The Maximilian Chamber, which is hung with Brussels tapestries; the large Council Chamber, which has a magnificent ceiling by Victor Janssens and tapestries designed by him; the great banqueting hall and the Marriage Chamber, which are both beautifully panelled; and the Escalier d'Honneur, which has murals depicting Brussels' history.

Location: 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Entrance fee: free

Timing: 9:00 am - 11:59 pm

Highlights: flower carpet, Hotel de Ville (Town Hall), Belgian Beer Weekend

Best time to visit: June to August