Today the capital of Belgium looks like a typical European city - noisy, crowded, rapidly developing. But walks in Brussels, especially in its historical center, show how many historical monuments have survived. This important list includes architectural masterpieces in the Gothic, Baroque or Art Nouveau style, and old streets, and monuments, including the famous Manneken Peace (everyone knows what he does in the capital).
Walking the Market Square of Brussels
Many tourist routes in the capital of Belgium start from the Grand Place. First, its old name is Market, which indicates its important role in the life of the city. Secondly, it also has titles, for example, the most beautiful square in Brussels, but what is there of Brussels, the most beautiful square in the world!
Already in the 13th century, this corner of the ancient city was in the center of attention of townspeople and merchants from all over the region and abroad. Active trade, knightly tournaments, holidays - what a paving stone, preserved from time immemorial, does not remember. Unfortunately, most of the 13th century buildings on the square were destroyed in the 17th century.
Later they were restored, and strictly according to the plan, their appearance became even better than before. During the restoration, many buildings were supplemented with architectural decorations in the form of carvings, columns, figurines and garlands. In addition, many of the structures received proper names, such as "Fox" or "Wolf".
Journey through the Upper Town
A walk through the city center and an acquaintance with the Market Square should by no means end your journey through Brussels. It is imperative to find the time and plan a route to the so-called Upper Town. It offers beautiful views of the old Belgian capital, and has many attractions of its own:
- The Royal Palace, where the royal family still lives today;
- Bellevue Museum, which contains important artifacts related to the history of the state;
- the cathedral, consecrated in honor of St. Michael, built over the centuries and has features of different architectural styles.
The Museum Square deserves special attention in Brussels. In fact, there are many small museums, galleries, exhibition salons located around it. Here you can also see the palace that belonged to Karl of Lorraine and the interesting object "Failure", a kind of illuminated well for the demonstration of works of modern art.
