Brussels City Hall

  One of the most iconic landmarks in Brussels is the gothic city hall that borders part of Le Grand Place. Actually, the structure was constructed in segments, with the L-shaped East wing being the oldest (built between 1402 and 1421). The next two segments were completed in 1444 and 1452. The 96 meter tall tower was added in 1455, topped with a 5 meter tall, gilded, statue of Michael the Archangel (the patron saint of Brussels) slaying a dragon. Legend has it that the dragon symbolized disease which folks believed was carried by the wind. As a result, Michael is pivoted to swing his sword into the wind in order to stop any disease from entering the city. In 1695, as the French attacked Brussels, city hall was totally destroyed by a fire. The set of buildings was quickly rebuilt to resemble the original structures.

Brussels City Hall bordering one side of Le Grand Place.

The 96 meter tall tower built in 1455.

This painting of the first king of Brussels, Leopold I, hangs next to the central stairwell.

This long room resembling a ball-room was actually used by city magistrates to hear (and hopefully resolve) court cases.

Next to the magistrates room, is this hall which is used for weddings, even today. If the bride-to-be is a citizen of Brussels, the room is available free of charge. The after wedding reception has to be held elsewhere.

This room is located under the tower.