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Square of Petit Sablon: A Serene Escape in Brussels

Discover a tranquil garden in Brussels' Sablon district, featuring historical statues and a peaceful atmosphere, a perfect escape from the city bustle.

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The Square of Petit Sablon is a small, meticulously designed garden in Brussels, showcasing a collection of 48 bronze statues representing medieval trades and a monument to Counts Egmont and Hornes. This tranquil oasis offers a glimpse into Belgian history and artistry.

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 your time to examine the 48 bronze statuettes on the fence, each representing a different medieval trade.
  • Visit the square during the weekend to combine your visit with a trip to the nearby antique market at the Grand Sablon.
  • Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by sitting on one of the benches and admiring the surrounding architecture and sculptures.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Church of Our Lady of Sablon, walk southeast along the Rue de la Régence/Regentschapstraat. The Square of Petit Sablon will be on your right, a short distance from the church. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Take tram lines 92 or 93 to the 'Petit Sablon' stop, which is located next to the Square of Petit Sablon. Alternatively, bus lines 27, 95, and 96 stop at 'Petit Sablon' or 'Royale', a short walk from the square. A single journey ticket costs €2.30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Brussels. A short taxi ride from the city center or a major transport hub like Brussels Central Station will cost approximately €11-€21, depending on the distance and traffic. Taxi fares start at €1.60 per km.

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Discover more about Square of Petit Sablon

The Square of Petit Sablon (Place du Petit Sablon in French, Kleine Zavel in Dutch) is a charming and historically rich garden in Brussels. Created in 1890 by architect Henri Beyaert, the square provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Originally, the site served as a cemetery dependent on the Saint-Jean hospital from 1289 to 1706. In the 1880s, Mayor Charles Buls initiated its transformation into the attractive garden seen today. The garden's layout is symmetrical, featuring meticulously trimmed boxwood clumps symbolizing the nine Belgian provinces of that era. The square is enclosed by an ornate wrought-iron fence, adorned with 48 unique bronze statuettes atop Gothic columns. These statuettes depict various medieval professions, offering a glimpse into the city's historical trades. Inside the garden, near the top of the slope, stand ten slightly larger statues honoring significant figures from Belgium's 16th century. At the heart of the square stands a fountain with statues of Counts Egmont and Hornes, who were executed for their resistance to Spanish rule. The monument, sculpted by Charles-Auguste Fraikin, was initially erected on the Grand Place, the site of their execution, before being moved to Petit Sablon. The Square of Petit Sablon offers visitors a serene escape and a chance to reflect on Brussels' rich history and artistic heritage.

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