Grote Markt, Grand place in Aalst, Belgium
Grote Markt is the central square of Aalst, framed by significant buildings including the Aldermen's House, Town Hall, and the Beurs van Amsterdam. A statue of printer Dirk Martens stands in the square, commemorating his important contribution to the city's cultural and intellectual development.
The square has been Aalst's center since medieval times and witnessed the execution of Clara 't Roen in 1524, marking her as the region's first female Protestant martyr. The buildings visible today were constructed over several centuries, reflecting the city's growth and changing architectural priorities.
The square serves as the heart of Aalst's Carnival celebrations, where locals and visitors gather to witness traditional customs like doll burning and onion throwing. These events reflect deep-rooted local traditions that shape the community's identity throughout the year.
The square is easy to reach on foot and connects to several surrounding streets like Kattestraat, Hopmarkt, and Nieuwstraat, making navigation straightforward. From here, you can comfortably explore the nearby shopping and historic districts at your own pace.
The Schepenhuis building at this square is designated as part of the UNESCO buffer zone, highlighting the city's historical importance as an early printing center. This recognition links the architectural character of the space to its significance in European printing history.
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