Central Square . . . .BELGIUM

The Grand’ Place has been at the heart of Brussels’ life since the 11th century. Almost totally destroyed by the French bombardment ordered by Louis XIV in 1695, it was later rebuilt in its original architectural style by various workers’ guilds. The splendid neo-Gothic and Baroque houses that surround the cobbled square once housed the headquarters of corporations of artists, merchants and tailors; the City of Brussels Museum in the formerMaison du Roi (King’s Residence) allows visitors to explore the city’s illustrious trading history. Other buildings in the Grand’ Place which provide insights into Brussels’ traditions are the Town Hall, the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate and the Museum of Brewing.

Contact Addresses

Office de Tourisme et d’Information de Bruxelles, Hôtel de Ville, Grand-Place, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: (02) 513 8940
Website: www.belgium-tourism.org