Brussels - Grand Place (Grote Markt)

The 110m/120yds by 68m/75yds Grand'Place (Grote Markt) lies at the very heart of Brussels Old Town, its sublime stylistic unity making it one of the loveliest squares in the world. Delightful at any time it is especially so when lit up in the evening and when filled with the additional color of the Sunday bird market and daily flower markets. First established on a marsh in the 11th C. the market soon evolved to become the city's political, economic and social nerve center.

The bombardment by the French on August 13-14, 1695 wrought havoc with its buildings, nearly all of which were subsequently rebuilt. The Place has thus preserved all its old magnificence and its original happy blend of Gothic and Baroque. Across the years, from the 14th and 15th centuries to the revolution of 1830, the square has witnessed many a dramatic political moment, including in 1568 the execution of Counts Egmont and Hoorn, beheaded in front of the Maison du Roi. It has also been the scene of much celebration and a stage for the city's major festivals. The "Ommegang" is held here every year and every second August the square is carpeted with flowers.