Pl. du Petit Sablon, Brussels Travel Guide

Pl. du Petit Sablon, or Petit Sablon Square, is a captivating small garden nestled in the heart of Brussels. Once a cemetery dependent on Saint John Hospital from 1289 to 1706, it was transformed into a public garden in 1890 by architect Henri Beyaert.The square is enclosed by a beautiful wrought-iron fence, inspired by one that once decorated the Coudenberg Palace, and adorned with 48 unique bronze statuettes. These statues represent medieval guilds and professions, offering a glimpse into Brussels' rich history.Inside the garden, you'll find ten slightly larger statues honoring significant figures from Belgium's 16th century, including Mercator, William the Silent, and painter Bernard van Orley. The central fountain features statues of the Counts of Egmont and Horn, who were beheaded for their resistance to Spanish rule. The nine clumps of trimmed boxwood symbolize the nine Belgian provinces of the time.Today, Pl. du Petit Sablon provides a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. Its well-maintained landscaping, soothing fountain, and historical statues create a serene atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.