Antwerp's Grote Markt
The Grote Markt began its history as a forum or square just outside the medieval residential core. Duke Henry I of Brabant (1165-1235) donated this communal land to the city in 1220. The name Merckt appeared for the first time in 1310. It is also around this time that the first annual fairs or forts of Brabant took place. Here English merchants did business with Italians, Spaniards, Hanseatics from the North German Hanseatic cities, South Germans and Flemings. At the end of the 15th century, Antwerp became the most important city in the Netherlands at the expense of Bruges.
The Grote Markt is the center of the heart of Antwerp. It is a square with many beautiful, historic guild houses. You will not only find Antwerp's town hall here, but also a whole lot of popular restaurants, bars and dance cafes. The Scheldt is within walking distance. The Grote Markt is the perfect starting point to explore the rest of Antwerp from here.
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