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Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Grand Place





We spent one of days strolling around Brussels, shopping at a market, drinking tea at a cafe, and exploring the Grand Place where the Reclining Man and the Mannekin Pis reside. The Grand Place was indeed grand. The architecture is amazing. We were lucky enough to be there on a day when there was some kind of festival happening - live music and festive atmosphere. The Grand Place started as an outdoor market in the 10th century. The City Hall was built in the 1400s. It's difficult to fathom that these buildings are still standing. My visits to Europe have really opened by eyes to art and how much the Europeans value artistry not only in cathedrals but all through their cities, bridges, arches, gates, statutes.