Grand Place of Antwerp
The Grand Place (or 'Grote Markt') of Antwerp is the most famous square in the city. The historic centre of Antwerp is located around the main square and the impressive Notre Dame Cathedral. Around the Grand Place are the famous guild houses, the city hall and numerous restaurants and cafes. Every winter a nice Christmas market and an ice rink are located on the square.
According to a 16th century legend Antwerp owes its name to the giant Druon Antigoon who chopped of the hands of the sailors who did not want to pay toll and who cast them in the Scheldt river. On the Grand Place you will see a statue of the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo who supposedly did the same to the giant after he had slain him. The statue was made by Jef Lambeaux who also made some statues for the gables surrounding the Grand Place, including the equestrian statue on top of the House of Spain building. This 16th century building is the largest house on the square.
Address: Grote Markt
Postal code: 2000
City: Antwerp
