Veurne - Grote Markt

The impressive center of the town is the Grote Markt, one of the finest market squares in Belgium. It is lined by several historic buildings in the characteristic west Flanders yellow brick. Interaction of the elements of architectural decoration of Flemish Renaissance and the sober Spanish influence becomes clear and it is for this that Veurne is often called the "Spanish town".

Must-see attractions nearby:

Sint-Walburgakerk

Grote Markt

Town Hall

Typical Visit

1 hour

Related Attractions

Hoge Wacht

On the south side of the market place facing the Appelmarkt is the Hoge Wacht, an arcaded building acquired by the town in 1636 for the guard.

Typical Visit

10 minutes

Landhuis

In the right-hand corner of the square adjoining the town hall is the former Landhuis, built 1613-1616 and now the palace of justice (viewing in conjunction with the town hall tour). It is dominated by its mighty Gothic belfry which, however, bears a Baroque spire. The tower, not finished until 1628, was set on fire by bombardment in 1940. Separated only by a narrow road, the Landhuis is adjoined by five very fine stepped gabled houses dating from the beginning of the 17th C.
The tower is a UNESCO site.

Typical Visit

30 minutes

Meat Hall

The Vleeshuis (meat hall) on the opposite side of the market place from the Vleeshuis dates from 1615 and is a fine example of Late Renaissance architecture.

Typical Visit

10 minutes

Spaans Paviljoen

The northeast side of the Grote Markt is taken up by the so-called Spaans Paviljoen. This was built between 1448 and 1452, extended in 1530 and until 1586 served as the town hall. In 1697 it was used to accommodate Spanish officers.

Typical Visit

10 minutes