Brabo Fountain
Grote Markt, Antwerp, Antwerp Province, 2000
Reigning supreme over Antwerp’s medieval Grote Markt, the photogenic Brabo Fountain—which was created by famous Flemish sculptor Jef Lambeux—depicts a man holding a severed hand, from the base of which water spurts. The fountain relates to Antwerp’s origin story, where a Roman soldier cut off the hand of a Russian giant who once guarded the city gates.
The Basics
Brabo Fountain’s iconic status, and prime position in Antwerp’s most impressive central square, means that it’s a regular fixture on plenty of sightseeing tours, which typically combine it with the 17th-century Carolus Borromeus Church and former home of the famous Baroque painter, Ruben’s House. Visit at your own pace on a hop-on hop-off city sightseeing bus tour; delve deeper into the city’s rich history and heritage on a walking tour; or learn more about its fantastical legends on a tour that focuses on stories and folklore.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Within seconds of the fountain, you’ll also find the Renaissance-style Antwerp City Hall, a 16th-century structure adorned with pendants.
- There’s no admission fee to visit the fountain.
- The square surrounding the fountain is flat and easily accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The fountain sits right in front of Antwerp City Hall on Grote Markt square. It’s a 5-minute walk from the Het Steen ferry terminal on the riverfront, and five minutes from the Antwerpen Melkmarkt tram stop, on the route for trams 9 and 15, both of which run from Antwerp Central Station.
When to Get There
You can visit the fountain 24 hours a day, seven days a week—it looks particularly impressive when illuminated at night. The area surrounding it springs to life during the Antwerp Spring Festival, usually held in May, which celebrates music and dance across the City of Diamonds.
Exploring Antwerp’s Historical Center
Antwerp’s Old Town is rich with cobblestone streets and medieval charm. Top sights to check out include the spectacularly grand Central Station, home to hundreds of gilded flourishes, and Butcher’s Hall, a candy-striped building dating back to the 14th century.
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