Title
The Grand-Place, in Brussels
Caption
Brussels, in Belgium. The Grand-Place (in dutch : Grote Markt) is a key destination in Brussels. It is surrounded by Guildhalls, including the town hall and the House of the King ( in dutch : Broodhuis). It is generally considered as one of the most beautiful places in the world (according to Victor Hugo, and others). The establishment was added to UNESCO's world heritage list in 1998. In 1523, the first protestant martyrs, Henri Voes and Jean Van Eschen were burnt at the stake there by the Spanish Inquisition. On the 13 August 1695, the majority of the households, made of wood, were destroyed during the bombardment of the town from french troops under the command of the Marshall of Villeroy. Only the tower belonging to the town hall, which had acted as a target for artillery, and a few stone walls, were able to withstand the incendiary bombs. The houses surrounding the square were reconstructed out of stone by the different Guilds. What used to act exclusively as the Brewers' Guild now houses the Museum of Belgian Brewers. The town hall, constructed between 1402 and 1455, is the only architectural example belonging to the era of the Middle Ages. It's original architect was probably Jacob Van Thienen. The work on the design of the gothic tower is thanks to Jan Van Ruysbroeck. At the top of it, one can see a statue of Saint Michael, the patron saint of Brussels, slaying a dragon.
Date
2007
Credit line
Photo12/Hachedé
Reference
HAC07249_2004_P1500014
Model release
No
License type
Rights managed
Available size
36,7Mb (1,4Mb) / 9,6in x 14,8in / 2881 x 4452 (300dpi)