Hotel de Ville (Brussels)

The Gothic Town Hall is an imposing and magnificent sight which dominates the Grand-Place in central Brussels. Built in the 15th century, it has been the centre of political power in Belgium for centuries and nowadays is one of the city’s most popular visitor attractions. Inside and out, it features a wealth of intricate stone carvings and a guided tour will encounter plenty of fascinating artwork and interior design. On short breaks in Brussels, you can explore the hallowed chamber halls and corridors of power filled with classical sculpture, priceless tapestries and tiled frescoes.

 

When not in use for official business, visitors can tour the great Gothic Hall which is surrounded by vast mirrors and intricate baroque wood carvings. If you are really in the mood during romantic breaks in Brussels, you can even tie the knot in this historic hall. Much of the original artwork is now hanging in the city museum at the Kings House, situated on the other side of the Grand-Place. The Town Hall is still the official seat of the Mayor of Brussels and regularly used for ceremonial and state occasions.

 

From the outside you cannot help but stand in awe at its soaring tower which rises over 300 feet and strangely is slightly off centre to the rest of the building. At its top is an extravagant gilt metal statue of St Michael, the patron saint of Brussels slaying a dragon. While on Brussels weekend breaks, you will delight at some of the humorous sculptures that adorn its facade. Most notable is a comical stone carving of drunken monks. There are a total of over 200 small sculptures interspersed with beautiful carved arched windows.