Place de la Bourse - Beursplein, square in City of Brussels, Belgium

Place de la Bourse - Beursplein is a wide open square in the center of Brussels, in front of the former stock exchange building. The paved ground is surrounded by old facades, and the large building rises directly on one side with steps leading up to its entrance.

The area began as a convent and later became a butter market before a major rebuilding in the 1800s. The stock exchange itself was finished toward the end of that century, and some of its outside figures were made by a young Auguste Rodin.

People gather here to sit on the steps, meet friends, or watch street performances that appear without notice. The building now hosts Belgian Beer World, where visitors can taste and learn about local brewing instead of just looking at objects behind glass.

The square is open at all times, so you can walk through it early in the morning or late at night. Wear shoes with good grip because the surrounding streets are cobbled and can feel uneven.

Below the square, you can walk through Bruxella 1238, an archaeological site with walls and foundations from centuries ago. Many visitors pass above it without knowing that old Brussels lies just under their feet.