Place du Grand Sablon

Overview

The Place du Grand Sablon is Brussels' most elegant square, lined with antique dealers, chocolatiers, and upmarket galleries. The weekend antiques market and the illuminated Church of the Sablon make it one of the city's atmospheric highlights.

Highlights

• Chocolatiers: Pierre Marcolini and Wittamer — two of Belgium's finest chocolatiers.
• Antiques Shops: Dozens of dealers specialising in Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and 18th-century furniture.
• Weekend Market: Saturday and Sunday antiques market on the square.

History

Originally a sandy hill (sablon = sand) outside the city walls. From the 15th century, it became a wealthy residential area for the nobility.

Visitor Tips

• Chocolate Tasting: Compare pralines from different chocolatiers.
• Evening: Visit at dusk when the Sablon church is illuminated.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.