La Grand Place in the heart of Brussels has been an open air market since the 14th century. Today, it is Brussels' must-see attraction and one of its most prestigious attractions, thanks to its labyrinth of cobbled streets leading up to it, flower sellers, good restaurants and fascinating buildings which range in architectural styles including examples from the gothic, baroque and Louis XIV periods. It became an internationally protected world heritage site in 1998.
The square was originally marshland, but by 1350, the area had been drained and a covered market flourished here, quickly followed by a booming cloth industry. The Hotel de Ville was built around the same time and guild halls sprang up around it and despite much of the square being destroyed by fire, the Hotel de Ville was spared and its spire remained intact. The building is still used as government offices, and it is possible to tour its historic rooms.
Other interesting buildings on the square include the L'Etoile, its smallest building, and the Swan, or le Cygne, where Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels used to meet to work on The Communist Manifesto. Next to that is L'Arbre d'Or or the Brewers' Guild, which holds a Brewery Museum.
The cobbled streets that surround the square are named after the foods that were sold at the market for centuries, including chicken, cheese and herbs. On the square itself, you’ll find several traditional, but rather expensive Belgian restaurants. If you are on a budget, head away from the square and try a Belgian favourite, moules-frites, or mussels with fries, accompanied by lashings of mayonnaise, with background music provided by passing musicians looking to entertain you.
La Grand Place is located in the heart of Brussels, and can be reached by metro or car. Paid parking is available but is limited and gets filled up very quickly.
