Great Market Square (Grote Markt), Leuven (must see)
The Great Market Square strategic location at the intersection of some of the city's most famous landmarks makes it a focal point for locals and tourists alike. Despite its vibrant atmosphere, the square has been pedestrian-friendly for several years, with only public transportation buses from De Lijn permitted to traverse its grounds.
Dating back to the 14th century, the Great Market Square has retained much of its original charm and architectural splendor. Its layout has remained largely unchanged since the establishment of the Catholic University Leuven. The square is adorned with Gothic-style buildings, with the town hall serving as a prominent example of this architectural heritage. Alongside the town hall, visitors can marvel at the Church of Saint Peter and several guild houses, each contributing to the square's rich historical tapestry.
In addition to its architectural marvels, the Great Market Square boasts a vibrant social scene, with numerous pubs, taverns, and eateries dotting its perimeter. Here, visitors can experience a blend of formal and traditional establishments alongside trendy, youth-oriented venues. This juxtaposition of styles creates a dynamic atmosphere, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.
Dating back to the 14th century, the Great Market Square has retained much of its original charm and architectural splendor. Its layout has remained largely unchanged since the establishment of the Catholic University Leuven. The square is adorned with Gothic-style buildings, with the town hall serving as a prominent example of this architectural heritage. Alongside the town hall, visitors can marvel at the Church of Saint Peter and several guild houses, each contributing to the square's rich historical tapestry.
In addition to its architectural marvels, the Great Market Square boasts a vibrant social scene, with numerous pubs, taverns, and eateries dotting its perimeter. Here, visitors can experience a blend of formal and traditional establishments alongside trendy, youth-oriented venues. This juxtaposition of styles creates a dynamic atmosphere, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Leuven. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Great Market Square (Grote Markt) on Map
Sight Name: Great Market Square (Grote Markt)
Sight Location: Leuven, Belgium (See walking tours in Leuven)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Leuven, Belgium (See walking tours in Leuven)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Leuven, Belgium
Create Your Own Walk in Leuven
Creating your own self-guided walk in Leuven is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Leuven Introduction Walking Tour
Nestled in the heart of Belgium, the picturesque town of Leuven has no shortage of historic and cultural attractions. Its name is thought to originate from the Old Germanic word "Loven," meaning “to love or praise”, an explanation of which may be found in the Leuven slogan, “Always praise God.”
Leuven's roots date back to 891 when it was first mentioned after a Viking... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Leuven's roots date back to 891 when it was first mentioned after a Viking... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Leuven Monuments and Statues
Leuven, Belgium is a city steeped in history and culture, embellished with an assortment of monuments and statues that mirror its abundant heritage. Ranging from age-old landmarks to contemporary sculptures, each of them narrates a tale and contributes to the city's distinct allure. Whether paying tribute to historical luminaries, commemorating artistic triumphs, or simply enhancing the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles