Everard 'T Serclaes
Everard 'T Serclaes: A Touch of History in Brussels
Brussels Town Hall: A Gothic Masterpiece
A stunning Gothic masterpiece in Brussels' Grand Place, the Town Hall showcases centuries of history and architectural grandeur.
Dominating the Grand Place, the Brussels Town Hall is a stunning example of Brabantine Gothic architecture and the square's only remaining medieval building. Built in stages between 1401 and 1455, its intricate facade, soaring tower, and historical significance make it a must-see landmark.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Brussels Town Hall
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Thursday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Friday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From Brussels Central Station, walk northwest along Coudenberg towards the Grand Place. Continue onto Rue de la Madeleine, then turn left onto Rue du Marché aux Herbes. The Town Hall will be on your left, in the Grand Place. This is approximately a 5-minute walk.
Public Transport
Take subway lines 1 or 5 to the Gare Centrale/ Centraal Station. From there, walk northwest along Coudenberg, continue onto Rue de la Madeleine, then turn left onto Rue du Marché aux Herbes. The Town Hall will be on your left, in the Grand Place. Alternatively, take tram lines 4 or 10 to the Bourse-Grand Place stop. Walk a short distance to the Grand Place. A single ticket costs €2.30.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Brussels. A taxi from Brussels Central Station to the Grand Place is a short ride, typically costing between €8-€11. Ensure the driver uses a meter or negotiate the fare beforehand.
Local tips
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Book a guided tour in advance to skip the lines and explore the Town Hall's interior, including the historic halls and tower.
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Visit on a weekend for the opportunity to take a panoramic guided tour and climb the tower for a 360-degree view of Brussels.
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Check the opening hours, as they can vary, and note that cash payments are not accepted for ticket purchases.
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Take time to admire the statues on the facade, which represent local nobility, saints, and allegorical figures.
Discover more about Brussels Town Hall
The Brussels Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville) stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess. Erected between 1401 and 1455, it is the only remaining medieval structure on the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Town Hall's construction occurred in two primary phases, beginning with the east wing in 1401 under the direction of Jacob van Thienen. The west wing followed in 1444, with the impressive 96-meter tower, designed by Jan van Ruysbroek, completed by 1455.
The building's facade is a masterpiece of Brabantine Gothic style, adorned with numerous statues representing local nobility, saints, and allegorical figures. The interior, largely restored in the 19th century by Victor Jamaer, showcases a neo-Gothic design, including the Maximilian Room, the States of Brabant Room, and the Municipal Council Room.
Throughout history, the Town Hall has been a focal point of major events. It housed the States of Brabant until 1795 and served as a makeshift hospital during World War I. In 1914, the German army occupied the Grand Place and hoisted a German flag at the Town Hall. Today, visitors can explore the Town Hall through guided tours, discovering its historical halls and even climbing the tower for panoramic city views.
A brief summary to Brussels Town Hall
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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