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Grote Markt: Antwerp's Historic Heart

Discover Antwerp's Grote Markt: a historic square with stunning architecture, legendary tales, and vibrant city life, offering an unforgettable experience.

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The Grote Markt, or Great Market Square, is the central square of Antwerp, Belgium, dating back to the 16th century. Surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the City Hall, it's a vibrant hub for tourists and locals alike, hosting events and offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.

A brief summary to Antwerpen à la Carte

  • Monday 8 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-10 pm
  • Friday 8 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the Christmas season to experience the magical Christmas market.
  • Take a guided tour of the City Hall to explore its full splendor.
  • Enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the many cafes with outdoor seating to soak in the atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Antwerpen-Centraal station, take tram line 7 directly to the Grote Markt. The tram ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. A single ride ticket costs around €2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Steenplein, walk north along the Scheldt river. Turn left onto Grote Markt. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Parking

    The Grote Markt has an underground parking garage, Parking Grote Markt, located at Ernest Van Dijckkaai 3, 2000 Antwerpen. Hourly rates are around €3.20, with a maximum daily rate of €24. Keep in mind that access is cashless, with payment accepted by card only.

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Discover more about Antwerpen à la Carte

The Grote Markt, the heart of Antwerp's historic center, is a captivating square with centuries of history and architectural splendor. From its origins as a marketplace in the Middle Ages, it evolved into a bustling commercial hub by the 16th century. The square witnessed Antwerp's transformation into one of Europe's most important cities. The Grote Markt is surrounded by beautiful guildhalls, each showcasing a unique architectural style. These buildings, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, stand as testaments to the city's wealth and power during its Golden Age. The guildhalls once belonged to powerful organizations of merchants and craftsmen, each dedicated to their patron saint, whose statue often adorns the building's facade. Dominating the square is the Stadhuis, or City Hall, a magnificent example of Flemish Renaissance architecture. Built between 1561 and 1565, the Stadhuis blends traditional and innovative elements, drawing inspiration from Italian Renaissance designs. Its facade is adorned with flags representing countries with consulates in Antwerp, a testament to the city's international significance. In the center of the Grote Markt stands the Brabo Fountain, created by Jef Lambeaux in 1887. The fountain depicts the legend of Silvius Brabo, a Roman soldier who defeated the giant Antigoon and threw his severed hand into the Scheldt River. This act is said to have given Antwerp its name ('hand werpen' in Dutch, meaning 'hand throwing'). The Brabo Fountain is a popular meeting point and a symbol of Antwerp's resilience. The Grote Markt is a vibrant public space that hosts various events throughout the year. These events bring life to the square, making it an exciting destination.

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