Photos

Grand Place-Grote Markt or just plainly Large Square, was bombarded in 1695 by Louis XIV (French) and completely destroyed (except for Hôtel de Ville, the Town Hall). It was rebuilt in less than five years in even more grandeur with help from the Guilds wanting to show off their houses around the square. Today most include somewhat expensive but necessary pubs and restaurants. Necessary because there is almost no where else you can sit and gawk to try and take it all in!
The Town Hall is 15th century Gothic, with intact interior. It houses the Brussels city local government, and if you live in the city centre, you can be married here.
The belfry is by Jan van Ruysbroeck, 90 m high, and topped by a spire, surmounted by the Archangel St. Michael, the patron saint of Brussles.
All parades and official markets etc. start or end here so don't be surprised if you met a man in clogs, 15th century costume throwing oranges to you (please catch it!) or a woman in national dress joggling a huge flag.