Grand Place of Antwerp

Give yourself an hour or two to admire the sixteenth-century buildings that adorn the cultural heart of the city.

Sit in a cafe along the Grand Place and enjoy a delicious hot chocolate or a refreshing Belgian beer as you watch the ballet of passers in the historic center of Antwerp. Surrounded by buildings dating from the sixteenth century, the main square of the city is known for the impressive Brabo fountain that sits in the center. The Antwerp like to come enjoy the many cafes, shops and restaurants located on the square.

Built in 1565, the City Hall dominates the west side of the Grand Place. This building adorned with elements from both the Flemish and Italian styles is still a fine example of Renaissance architecture. Notice the red brick arches on the ground floor that once housed dozens of small stalls. Above the arches, two rows of Ionic columns give the building a more antique look.

At the center of the square seat the imposing gray-green statue of Brabo, the most famous mythical character of Antwerp. According to legend, Brabo killed the giant imposing excessive taxes to travelers wishing to enter the city by the waterways. The statue represents the throwing hand of the giant in the Scheldt.

All around the square are the charming houses Guild. Dating back to the early sixteenth century, the original houses were destroyed by fire. Ones you can see today are the result of a renovation dating from the nineteenth century, which explains the lavish decorations that can be seen on the facades and golden statues that adorn the roof of several houses.

Enjoy your visit to provide you a tasting in a chocolate shop or enjoy a plate of mussels washed down with a local beer. When the sun sets and the lights are illuminating the buildings, the place offers a particularly romantic setting for a stroll or a romantic meal.

Those who choose to visit Antwerp in December will not miss the Christmas markets held each year to stock up on souvenirs and gifts. During the winter, rent a pair of skates and enjoy the ice rink installed in the windows with shutters of some of the oldest buildings in the city.

Grand Place, within walking distance of most attractions of the city, is open free all year.