When I arrived there were a lot of people, of all nationalities
Apparently there are again guests in the most elegant hotel in Brussels the "Amigo", because of the terrorist attacks in March, the hotel and tourist industry had suffered a lot.
The beer museum was closed this day because it was "All Saint's day"
But on the whole place people walked around and took pictures The whole place had been recently renovated and the fresh gold painting glittered in the sunshine.
The Brasserie "Le cigne" (The Swan) was nearly full and people even sat outside on the terrace.
The statue of Everard t'Serclaes sculpted by artist Julien Dillens (1849–1904), had been painted completely into black very much to my surprise ! It is said among locals that the statue brings luck and grants the wishes of all who touch it. Therefore the black colour was gone because tourists touch (or rather rub) the statue, particularly the arm, because the legend says that rubbing the arm will ensure one's return to Brussels. Other parts are also touched frequently by the tourists such as the face of an angel, a dog, and one of the shields. This constant polishing kept the body shining compared to the rest of the sculpture, but now it had been repainted and they have to start all over again and rub !
The Wafel and chocolate shops were also very busy
and tourists loved to look at the Brussels' laces There are many shops around the Grand'Place.
and a big shop where you could find all kind of souvenirs !
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Hi Gattina - lovely photos ... I've been to Brussels a few times - but really need a proper look round. I was taken on an art deco tour .. which was amazing ... I did buy a small piece of lace work - a Zebra ... I had only recent come back from Africa - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteLooks like Brussels is a beautiful,thriving city. Fantastic pictures!
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking us on your walk ♥ Beautiful place ♥
ReplyDeleteIt's fun being a tourist in your own area. Glad people are not put off from visiting such a lovely city.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the guided tour and lovely photos.
ReplyDeleteSo impressive with the lovely architecture and gold bits.
ReplyDeleteGood to see that tourists are returning. The gold paint looks wonderful, it won't be long before the Square has all its Christmas Tree in place. I wonder if they will go traditional or not this year.
ReplyDeleteI remember being taken to 'le Corbeau' when I was working in Brussels in my early twenties. I think that was on the Grand Place as well.
ReplyDeleteThe Grand Place is really very beautiful and I wouldn't mind having a look around those chocolate shops either.
ReplyDeleteIts good to see tourists are starting to return. I love all the lace that is made is there.
ReplyDeleteit's fun to play tourist in your own area. And you have a beautiful big city nearby.
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