What is famous for Brussels? Town Hall decorating the city

The charming capital of Belgium with an interesting history is one of the major cultural centers of Europe. The ancient city is of great interest to tourists who will fully appreciate the richness of the architectural heritage. Each passing epoch left its imprint, and the central square is considered the heart of Brussels from the Middle Ages.

The Grand Place is not in vain called the most elegant in Europe. Surrounding its flat square buildings without exaggeration are considered real masterpieces of world architecture. The historical center, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, originated on the site of dried marshes, is famous for the city hall of the Hotel de Ville, which occupies most of the square.

Popular tourist attraction

The idea of building a building embodying the importance of the shopping center of medieval Europe appeared in the city authorities for a very long time, but only in the 15th century the construction of a magnificent architectural ensemble began, which has adorned Brussels for a long time. The Town Hall, considered the oldest building on the square, is a popular tourist attraction.

An asymmetrical building

Well-preserved after the enemy's attacks and numerous fires, the building is crowned with a high watchtower, not located in the middle. However, this is not a mistake, but the result of the fact that several architects were engaged in construction at different times.

The most beautiful building of the city was built in several approaches. The left part with the bell tower was built in 1420, after 30 years, the right side appeared, which initially turned out to be slightly shorter than the old one, and in 1455 a tower with the height of 96 meters arose. The Brussels City Hall is interesting in that its building turned out to be asymmetrical. At the end of the XVIII century, two rear wings appeared in the Baroque style.

Attractive decor

The gold-laced openwork spire of the tower is crowned by a five-meter figure of Archangel Michael made of copper plates, which protects from troubles Brussels. The town hall, recognized as a historical and architectural monument, acquired the present appearance in the XIX century, when it was restored, and at the same time a lot of sculptural objects were added: images of saints, horse riders, heroes of ancient traditions, rulers of the Middle Ages, drunken monks. But the best time to admire the decor is firsthand.

Architectural pearl

The interior decoration is amazing with a special beauty. The tourists dies at the sight of tapestries woven with gold threads, luxurious mirrors with wooden carvings, paintings by famous artists. Here is a majestic hall, in which there are memorable marriages. Therefore, many lovers who wish to mark wedding ceremonies outside of the standard, come for positive emotions to Brussels.

The town hall, which has a historical value, is known for its harmonious combination of two directions: the Gothic and the classical styles. This is especially noticeable in the decoration of the interiors of the building, in which the city council continues to this day. For example, officials sit in rooms made in the spirit of the "sun-king" era, and the halls for weddings and official events are decorated in the Neo-Gothic style.

Looking like an air building, used as the mayor's residence, is available for excursions. Tourists who have heard about the architectural pearl and dreaming to get acquainted with the work of art, every year rush to hospitable Brussels.

Town Hall: interesting facts

• Fountains in the courtyard represent the two main rivers of Belgium.
• The most popular gothic creatures of the town hall are the gargoyles. Often they are confused with chimeras, as between these monsters the differences are very conventional. This is not just an element of architectural design, performing artistic functions: frightening creatures with monkey's body and wings cover the drains of the structure or themselves draw moisture through the open mouth.
• Every even year, from the middle of August, an observation deck opens, from which the city appears as in the palm of your hand. A wonderful panorama can not be missed if you dream of enjoying the elegant beauty of ancient Brussels. It was then that huge carpets of fresh flowers blossom on the square. A delightful sight attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.

Even a week is not enough to see all the major attractions that Brussels is famous for all over the world. The Town Hall Hotel de Ville and the square on which the amazing masterpiece is located represent an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the culture of the city and the whole country.