Town Hall

The idea to build a town hall emerged at the end of the 13th century. The new municipal building was meant to symbolize the grandeur and growing significance of the city as a leading industrial center of medieval Europe. The foundation stone was laid in 1401, but the 96-meter spire was only added 50 years later.

Construction of the town hall began along with a bell tower: the building of that time now forms the left part of the modern town hall, although initially, no extensions or expansions were planned.

The right wing of the town hall was laid down in 1444, largely influenced by the guilds of craftsmen who wished to participate in city governance.

In 1455, the bell tower was replaced with a 96-meter tower, topped by a five-meter statue of Archangel Michael.

Since the built town hall was considered a symbol of Brussels' independence, in the 16th century the monarch commissioned the construction of a personal residence on the opposite side of the square — the so-called King's House or Bread House.

The town hall survived the French bombardment of 1695, and the statue on the tower remained until it was replaced in 1996. Two rear wings, in Baroque architectural style, were added to the Brussels Town Hall by 1711.

In 1998, the famous Belgian town hall, as part of the Grand Place ensemble, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The facade of the building showcases the complexity of Gothic architecture with numerous arched openings and stone decorations, a soaring bell tower that slightly distorts symmetry, and 137 statues. These statues symbolize the talent and humor of the craftsmen, including drunk monks, a Moor with a harem, and Archangel Michael in a female form fighting the devil. Gargoyles are present in the architecture, serving both a decorative and practical function— protecting the gutters.

At night, the facade of the town hall is illuminated, making it even more impressive. After significant damage, the building was restored in 1840, adding silhouettes of the rulers of the Duchy of Brabant.

Inside the town hall, there are luxurious halls decorated with tapestries, sculptures, and paintings. There is a wedding hall, offering a unique atmosphere for marriage ceremonies. There is also a balcony that serves as an observation deck. Every two years, a "Flower Carpet" festival takes place here, during which the Grand Place is covered with flowers. In 2023, the festival was held from August 11 to 15.

In the inner courtyard of the town hall, fountains symbolizing the main rivers of Belgium — the Scheldt and the Meuse — add a colorful accent to the overall picture.