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Square of Petit Sablon: A Tranquil Oasis in Brussels

Discover a serene 19th-century garden in Brussels' Sablon district, featuring historical statues and tranquil landscaping, a peaceful escape in the city.

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The Square of Petit Sablon, or Kleine Zavel, is a beautifully landscaped garden in Brussels' Sablon district. Created in 1890, it features a symmetrical design, wrought-iron fencing adorned with 48 bronze statues representing medieval guilds, and a central fountain with statues of Counts Egmont and Hornes. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

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 adorning 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 walk through the Sablon district, known for its antique shops and art galleries.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Grand Place, walk southeast towards the Mont des Arts. Continue towards the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, then head downhill towards the Church of Our Lady of Sablon. The Square of Petit Sablon is located just southeast of the church, a short walk uphill. This walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take tram lines 92 or 93 to the 'Petit Sablon' stop, which is located next to the Church of Our Lady of Sablon and directly adjacent to the square. Alternatively, bus routes 27, 95, or 96 stop at 'Royale', a short walk from the square. A single journey ticket costs €2.30 if purchased in advance or via contactless payment. Purchasing a ticket from the driver costs €2.50.

  • Taxi

    From Brussels Central Station, a taxi to Square of Petit Sablon will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares in Brussels start at €2.60, with a price per kilometer of €2.30 and a price per minute of €0.60. Expect to pay between €10.70 and €17.00 for the ride. Taxis can be found at the rank in front of the station's main exit.

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Discover more about Square of Petit Sablon

The Square of Petit Sablon, known in Dutch as Kleine Zavel, is a charming public park located in the upper part of Brussels, in the Sablon district. This small rectangular area was transformed into a public garden in 1890, designed by architect Henri Beyaert. Previously, the site served as a cemetery dependent on the Saint-Jean hospital from 1289 to 1706, and later as a horse market. The garden is enclosed by an ornate wrought-iron fence, inspired by one that once decorated the Coudenberg Palace, and punctuated by tall stone pillars. Atop each pillar sits a unique bronze statuette, each representing a historical profession from the Middle Ages, such as carpenters, clockmakers, and tinsmiths, totaling 48 statues. 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 the Counts of Egmont and Hornes, who were beheaded on the Grand Place in 1568 for their resistance to Spanish rule. The square is a tranquil oasis in the city, offering a serene atmosphere with its well-maintained landscaping and soothing fountain. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxing break. The surrounding area is rich in history, with notable structures like the Egmont Palace nearby.

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