■ Brussels
The Grand Place Square, built in the 12th century, reminds us of the glorious era of prosperity as a medieval commercial center.
The Gothic king's house is facing Grand Place Square and accommodates all of Brussel's famous Manneken Pis costumes.
Guild houses are following the king's house. They are splendid baroque buildings with gold leafing. They were destroyed by King Louis XIV of France in 1695, but were rebuilt by the Guild Craftsmen's Union less than four years later.
The Gothic city hall on the southwest side of the Grand Place was built in the 15th century. The hall's stained black tower is being repaired with a large scaffolding. The central building of the guild house on the south side of the Grand Place is the Beer Museum. They have 400 kinds of beer brands in one place. Belgium is a treasure trove of beer.
Flower market opens at Grand Place. Every two years, a flower carpet(a flower festival) is held in August.
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| City hall |
Beer Museum |
Flower market |
The buildings in the city have a more luxurious gable wall design than Bruges's. The tower of the city hall rises behind the French-style gardens of Mont des Arts. A pocket park in front of the Palais des Beaux-Arts has perfect symmetry, due to the French style of landscaping.
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| Old town cityscape |
City hall |
French style garden |
The second floor and ceiling lights can be seen through the arch of the large first floor windows. The outdoor appearance does not seem to match the indoor floor. It is difficult to continue to use the magnificent stone building as it is.
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