Grand Place
building is nothing but the #Stadhuis or townhall of #Antwerp. But, It's
not just an ordinary town hall.
If you’re touring Antwerp, this town hall is something that
is hard to miss - it's the large beautiful building with all colorful flags flying,
on the banks of river Scheldt. The town hall is so beautiful and steeped
in rich colorful history. It an attractive example of #Brabantine Gothic
architecture, which was constructed in 1565 and still standing
strong. (Infact, the city is celebrating it’s 450th birthday this year in a
grand way! )
The town hall is an impressive architecture and located in
an equally impressive square. So far, we have not gone inside, but I heard that
the inside is also so gorgeous and has some excellent paintings. No wonder it
is a #UNESCO World Heritage site.
The square has an attractive statue in the centre – “The
statue of Brabo” which has an interesting story behind. It’s childish!!, but still let me share what I
heard ;P
The story goes like there was a Giant who controlled the
river. If you were unwilling to pay the toll he would cut off your hand. One
day a sailor, Silvius Brabo, challenged the Giant to a dual. Brabo won and cut
off the Giant's head and hand. He threw the hand into the water, which is
#Flemish for hand throw or "#handwerpen". That is how Antwerp got
it's name !
I have been here in the day as well during the night time.
Hands down!!!, the building looks amazingly beautiful at night as they are lit
up. You should come here both day and night to compare for yourself!
If you’re on a short tour, It's a quick stop but is
definitely a worthy to visit and spend some time over this wonderfully-crafted
building and on the river side cafes, pubs, relaxing spots around it (the area
is called as #GroteMarkt). You’ll not be disappointed!
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