Brussels Town Hall stands on the south side of the Grand Place, its Gothic façade and tall, finely decorated tower drawing the eye across the square. Built between 1401 and 1455, it is the only medieval building still standing on the Grand Place. Look closely at the sculptures on the exterior and the figure of Saint Michael atop the spire. When interior visits are available, a guided tour takes you through richly finished rooms with tapestries, paintings and carved woodwork. The building is illuminated after dark.
A medieval landmark on the Grand Place
Brussels Town Hall occupies the south side of the Grand Place, facing the King’s House, which houses the Brussels City Museum. Work on the Town Hall began in the early 15th century and continued until 1455. It is the square’s only surviving medieval building.
The building is an example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. Its scale and detailed exterior make it easy to pick out among the guild houses around the square. The tower is not set exactly in the middle of the façade, a detail to notice when you look at the building from across the Grand Place.
Take time to examine the carved figures covering the exterior. Saint Michael, the city’s protector, stands at the top of the spire. The tower and the sculptures are especially clear in daylight; after dark, floodlights give the building a different appearance.
Inside the Town Hall
Interior visits take in more than 20 rooms, including reception halls with tapestries, paintings and decorative woodwork. The rooms have designs from different periods, so look at the furnishings and finishes as well as the larger architecture. A guided tour provides a way to explore the interiors and learn about their history; audio guides may also be available.
The Town Hall’s rooms are used for a flower show in alternate years to the flower carpet on the Grand Place. If your visit coincides with the display, the rooms offer another vantage point on this event. Check the Town Hall’s visitor information for tour availability and details before planning your visit.
Planning an interior visit
The Town Hall is on the Grand Place at Grand Place 8. Interior access is through tours, and advance reservation is advised. Tour availability can depend on the day, so check the official city website before setting out. If you are visiting mainly to see the exterior, the square remains the place to take in the façade and tower from different angles.
The Grand Place is often busy. Visit in daylight to make out the sculptures, and consider coming back in the evening to see the illuminated façade. Treat the building as a working civic landmark as well as a historic site, and follow any instructions given during a tour.
FAQ
Where is Brussels Town Hall?
It is at Grand Place 8, on the south side of the Grand Place in Brussels.
Can you go inside Brussels Town Hall?
Interior visits are available through guided tours. Check the official city website for current tour availability and reserve in advance if possible.
What can you see inside Brussels Town Hall?
Tours visit more than 20 rooms, including reception halls with tapestries, paintings and carved woodwork.
How old is Brussels Town Hall?
It was built between 1401 and 1455 and is the only medieval building still standing on the Grand Place.
