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Statue of Gabrielle Petit: A Tribute to Courage

A stirring tribute to a courageous Belgian resistance fighter, the Statue of Gabrielle Petit stands as a symbol of bravery and patriotism in Brussels.

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The Statue of Gabrielle Petit, located in Place Saint-Jean in Brussels, is a bronze monument honoring Gabrielle Petit, a Belgian spy who worked for the British Secret Service during World War I. Executed by the Germans in 1916, she became a national heroine and a symbol of Belgian resistance. The statue captures her spirit and determination, making it a poignant site for reflection.

A brief summary to Statue of Gabrielle Petit

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photographs.
  • Take time to explore the nearby cafes for authentic Belgian treats.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby landmarks such as Manneken Pis and the Fondation Jacques Brel.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Statue of Gabrielle Petit is located in Place Saint-Jean, a short walk from Brussels Central Station and other major landmarks. From the Grand Place, walk northeast along Rue Charles Buls, then turn left onto Rue de l'Étuve. Continue onto Rue du Lombard, and then turn right onto Place Saint-Jean. The statue will be in the center of the square. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to the Statue of Gabrielle Petit is Bourse/Beurs. From Brussels Central Station, take metro lines 1 or 5 to Bourse/Beurs. From there, walk along Rue de la Bourse towards Rue de la Montagne, then turn left onto Rue de la Croix de Fer. Continue straight until you arrive at Place Saint-Jean. The statue will be in the center of the square. A single journey ticket costs €2.30. Tickets can be purchased at GO vending machines, KIOSK or BOOTIK ticket offices, or via contactless payment.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Brussels. From Brussels Central Station, a taxi ride to Place Saint-Jean typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific service used. The journey usually takes around 5-10 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Statue of Gabrielle Petit

In the heart of Brussels, on the elegant Place Saint-Jean, stands the Statue of Gabrielle Petit, a powerful tribute to a courageous woman who defied the German occupation during World War I. Gabrielle Petit, born in 1893, was a working-class woman who became a celebrated figure in the Belgian resistance. At the outbreak of World War I, Gabrielle volunteered for the Belgian Red Cross. She assisted her wounded fiancé in crossing the border to the Netherlands and, in doing so, provided valuable information to British Intelligence. Recognizing her potential, the British Secret Service recruited her as a spy. For nearly two years, she gathered intelligence on German troop movements and activities, assisted the underground mail service, and helped young men escape to rejoin the Belgian army. In early 1916, Gabrielle was betrayed by a German agent and arrested. Despite facing interrogation and offers of amnesty, she refused to reveal the identities of her fellow agents. Sentenced to death for espionage, she was executed by firing squad on April 1, 1916, at the age of 23. Her bravery and defiance in the face of death solidified her status as a national heroine. The bronze statue, created by sculptor Égide Rombaux, was erected in 1923 and is believed to be the first monument to a working-class woman in European history. It depicts Gabrielle standing upright, her expression conveying strength and resolve. The statue serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the courage of ordinary individuals in the face of adversity. The surrounding Place Saint-Jean offers a vibrant atmosphere with cafes and shops, inviting visitors to reflect on Gabrielle's legacy and contributions to Belgian history.

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