Schmap Brussels Historical Background

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Brussels - Historical Background
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Brussels Home
Schmap Brussels guide and map

The name Brussels is derived from the word Bruocsella meaning ‘of the marsh', because Brussels was originally surrounded by an extensive marshland. According to tradition, Brussels began as a Gallo-Roman settlement in the 7th century A.D. It wasn't until 977 that Brussels really began to take shape as a city. In the 12th century the city already had 5,000 residents.

Medieval Prosperity

During the 12th, 13th and 14th centuries Brussels was the main centre for the manufacturing of luxurious fabrics, for exporting and for finance and politics. New city walls were erected around the city to protect against enemy invasion. These walls stood until the 19th century when they were replaced by a ring road round the city. The only remaining section of the wall still standing is the Porte de Hal.

A Battle Ground

The Grote Markt, said by many to be the most beautiful market square in Europe, is Brussels' historical centre. In the 15th century the city's citizens obtained true power and the majestic town hall, with its 96m-high tower was built. Hastily destroyed by Louis XIV's army during three sieges in 1695, the market place took three years to re-build. After this time, Brussels fell into the hands of a number of different rulers from various lands.

The Search for Independence

In her search for independence, Brussels was often the stage for fighting that continued until the arrival of Charles de Lorraine in 1744. In 1789 the people of Brussels followed the example of revolutionary France and took part in the Brabants' uprising against Austria. In 1790 the United Belgian States was proclaimed. There was much disunity amongst the groupings, and after a number of attacks from the Austrian side, the revolutionary French government took power. Brussels was now in the hands of the French.

In 1815 Napoleon was defeated at Waterloo and after the Vienna Treaty, Brussels came under the dominion of The Netherlands. In 1830 the Belgian Revolution led to independence and Brussels was chosen as the new capital for the state of Belgium.

19th Century Modernization

The city began its modernization during the 19th century. In 1865 the first European passenger railway was opened between Brussels and Mechelen. New streets were laid and road taxes were abolished. The Palace of Justice was built and the city was extended.

The Capital of Europe

Brussels has survived two world wars. In the post-war years Brussels again began expanding and modernizing. In the year 1958 the World Fair was held in Brussels and in the 60's the city became the base for the EEC and NATO.

More or less during the same period, many multinationals established their offices in Brussels. Up to the present day Brussels, with its one million residents, capital of Europe, is where you run into people from all over the world. A new Europe without borders and trade restrictions between member states, the European Union, was formed in 1992.

This small land, divided into different languages, customs and governments is really not so divided. In Flanders, in the north of the country and north of Brussels, the Flemings speak Flemish, a dialect of Dutch. Walloon in the south is inhabited by French-speaking people. After the First World War a small area formerly under German rule was handed over to Belgium, and German can still be heard in these parts. Flemish and French are both official languages in Brussels, so you will find everything in the city is bilingual.

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Grote Markt / Grand Place

Most splendid square in Europe

Grote Markt
Brussels 1000
Belgium
+32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor Toeristen)

This has been called the most splendid market square in Europe. Its esplanade is completely enclosed by tall, gabled, Flemish Renaissance buildings dripping with ornamentation and statues. It is alive with daily commerce and a colorful flower market. Impressive as it is by day, it is even more beautiful at night in the golden glow of floodlights. During spring and summer evenings there is a light show that shouldn't be missed.

Review © 2007, Wcities