A Square Rebuilt from Ruins
The Grand-Place owes its splendour to disaster. In 1695 the troops of Louis XIV of France bombarded Brussels, reducing much of the square to rubble. Rather than be cowed, the city’s guilds rebuilt it within a few years — grander than before, each house competing in ornament — creating the astonishingly harmonious Baroque ensemble you see today.
What to See
The two great landmarks are the 15th-century Town Hall, its slender tower topped by a statue of St Michael, and the neo-Gothic King’s House (Maison du Roi) opposite, which houses the city museum. All around, the former guild houses — the Bakers, the Brewers, the Boatmen and more — are covered in gilded statues and emblems. A short walk away stands the city’s cheeky mascot, the Manneken Pis fountain.
The Flower Carpet
Every two years in mid-August, the Grand-Place is carpeted with a vast, intricate design made from hundreds of thousands of fresh begonias — a spectacular tradition dating back to 1971. If your trip coincides with it, it is an unmissable sight; in other years, the square is still magnificent by day and beautifully lit at night.
FAQ
Why is the Grand-Place famous?
For its remarkably harmonious Baroque guild houses, Gothic Town Hall and gilded façades, rebuilt after 1695 — one of Europe’s finest historic squares.
When is the Flower Carpet held?
Every two years, over a few days in mid-August. Check the exact dates before planning a trip around it.
What is the nearest airport?
Brussels Airport (BRU) is about 12 km from the city centre.
