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Square of Petit Sablon: A Tranquil Oasis in Brussels

A picturesque Brussels garden featuring historical statues and tranquil landscaping, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

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The Square of Petit Sablon is a beautifully landscaped garden in Brussels, a serene escape from the city's bustle. Enclosed by an ornate wrought-iron fence and featuring 48 bronze statues representing medieval guilds, it offers a glimpse into Belgium's rich history and artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Square of Petit Sablon

  • Monday 8:15 am-7:45 pm
  • Tuesday 8:15 am-7:45 pm
  • Wednesday 8:15 am-7:45 pm
  • Thursday 8:15 am-7:45 pm
  • Friday 8:15 am-7:45 pm
  • Saturday 8:15 am-7:45 pm
  • Sunday 8:15 am-7:45 pm

Local tips

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the park and try to identify the professions represented by the 48 bronze statues on the wrought-iron fence.
  • Visit the nearby Notre Dame du Sablon church and the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert for a full day of sightseeing.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Grand Sablon Square to explore the lively antiques market.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Grand Place, the Square of Petit Sablon is approximately a 10-minute walk. Head south towards the Mont des Arts, then continue towards the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. The square will be on your left, near the Church of Our Lady of Sablon.

  • Public Transport

    You can reach the Square of Petit Sablon via the Brussels Metro or Tram. Take Metro lines 1 or 5 to Gare Centrale, then walk approximately 15 minutes to the garden. Alternatively, Tram lines 92 and 93 stop nearby at Petit Sablon. A single journey ticket costs €2.30.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Brussels. A short trip from the city center to the Square of Petit Sablon will typically cost between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the specific service.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available near the Square of Petit Sablon, including the Interparking Sablon. Parking Poelaert-Zavel is also an option. Hourly parking rates typically range from €2 to €5. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist season.

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Discover more about Square of Petit Sablon

The Square of Petit Sablon, or Kleine Zavelsquare, is a charming and historically rich public garden located in the Sablon district of Brussels. Created in 1890 by architect Henri Beyaert, the square was once a cemetery dependent on the Saint-Jean hospital from 1289 to 1706. Mayor Charles Buls transformed the paved site into an attractive garden, inaugurated in 1890. The square is dedicated to the memory of Counts Egmont and Hornes, who were executed for their resistance to the Spanish invasion. The garden is enclosed by a superb wrought-iron balustrade adorned with 48 bronze statuettes designed by Paul Hankar, each representing medieval professions such as stone-cutters, tallow makers, and linen croppers. These detailed statues offer a glimpse into the historical trades and crafts of the region. Inside the square, near the top of the slope, stand ten slightly larger statues honoring significant figures from Belgium's 16th century. In the middle of the park is a fountain, topped by statues of Counts Egmont and Hoorn, commemorating their execution on the Grand Place in 1568. The park's symmetrical design includes nine clumps of trimmed boxwood, symbolizing the nine Belgian provinces of the time. The Square of Petit Sablon provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Its well-maintained landscaping, soothing fountain, and intriguing statues create a peaceful atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. The square is conveniently located near other attractions such as the Grand Sablon Square, the Church of Our Lady of Sablon, and the Egmont Palace.

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