Overview:

Grote Markt, Antwerp is the historic center and main square of Antwerp, one of the major cities in Belgium. Located in the city's old town, Grote Markt is surrounded by historic buildings and monuments, including the Brabo Fountain, Cathedral of Our Lady, and several guildhalls. It's a popular meeting point and home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. On Saturdays, Grote Markt transforms into a bustling marketplace, where vendors sell local produce, cheeses, meats, flowers, and other goods. Yearly events, like the Summer of Antwerp Festival, also take place here. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Belgium
Prominent Features:

1. Brabo Fountain: Located in the center of the Grote Markt, the Brabo Fountain is a local landmark that features the iconic statue of Silvius Brabo, a legendary figure of Antwerp folklore. 2. Guild Houses: Along the perimeter of the Grote Markt Square are fifteen guild houses, originally constructed in the 16th century as housing for Antwerp's many trade unions. Each house is individually decorated and remains a unique reflection of the city's past. 3. Antwerp City Hall: Another iconic structure within the Grote Markt is City Hall, built in the early 1500s and now home to the mayor of Antwerp. It is surrounded by the city's main shopping street, Meir, where visitors can explore an array of designer boutiques. 4. Cathedral of Our Lady: This grand Gothic Cathedral towers above the Grote Markt, offering an awe-inspiring view of the square and city. Inside, visitors can admire the richly decorated Baroque interior and even climb to the top of the tower for a breathtaking view of Antwerp. 5. Saturday Market: On Saturdays, the Grote Markt is transformed into a bustling outdoor market, lined with hundreds of stands where vendors peddle their wares – from handmade crafts to locally-grown vegetables. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belgium.

History:

The Grote Markt (or Great Market Square) of Antwerp, Belgium, is a vibrant open space located in the center of the historic city. This square has undergone many changes throughout its long history, but its central part has remained an important public space since the Middle Ages. The earliest mention of the square dates back to 1220, when it was first used as a marketplace. The area was also used as a parade ground and as the regular site of civic gatherings. By the 16th century, the square had become the center of daily life in Antwerp and was the site of many festivals and other public events. In 1533, a large statue of far-sighted statesman and philosopher Justus Lipsius was erected in the center of the square. The statue is still standing today and is widely considered to be a symbol of the city. In the 17th century, Antwerp underwent a major redesign and the Grote Markt was redesigned and enlarged. During the Napoleonic Wars, the square was extensively damaged and was rebuilt in the early 19th century. Today, the square is largely surrounded by buildings in the Baroque and Art Nouveau styles, and features a large paved area with repurposed cobblestones. At the center of the square is a large fountain, which was built in 19th century and surrounded by four stone lions. Near the fountain is a memorial to American liberating forces who helped free the city in WWII. The Grote Markt continues to be an important site for commercial activities, festivals, and civic events. The renovations and redesigns have preserved this important piece of Antwerp's history and have allowed the square to remain a bustling marketplace for centuries. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belgium with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Grote Markt is one of the most famous squares in Antwerp, Belgium. 2. The Grote Markt was first mentioned in a document dating back to 1529, and it was officially declared a public square in 1603. 3. The square was built in the typical Flemish Renaissance style and has a traditional cobblestone surface. 4. It is home to the City of Antwerp's Town Hall, the Stock Exchange, and the 17th century Brabo Statue, which commemorates the legend of Brabo, the mythical hero who severed the giant Antigoon's hand. 5. The Grote Markt often hosts festivals, markets, and other events. 6. It is a popular spot for residents and tourists alike to come and watch street performances, enjoy an ice cream cone from one of the nearby cafes, and admire the many architectural beauties that surround the square. One of the historical monuments of Belgium, it tells the story of a bygone era