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Square · Hasselt, Limburg
Grote Markt
Hasselt's central square, surrounded by cafés and restaurants, with the half-timbered house Het Sweert on one corner and the cathedral a few steps away.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Grote Markt
The Grote Markt is Hasselt's meeting point. From here the pedestrian streets of the center start, and around it cafés, breweries and restaurants with sidewalk seating line up. The city grew within walls that became the current ring road, and the square sits right in the middle of that circle.
The most photographed building on the square is Het Sweert, a 17th-century half-timbered house with its wooden frame exposed on the façade. The building is protected as heritage and houses shops on the ground floor. Other old façades, with stepped gables, complete the ensemble.
The Sint-Quintinuskathedraal is less than 100 meters away, and the Virga Jessebasiliek on Kapelstraat is a few minutes away. The basilica houses the image of the Virga Jesse, the city's patroness, which goes out in procession every seven years during the festival named after her.
In October, the square and neighboring streets usually host the jenever festivals, with stalls and tastings of the local spirit. The rest of the year it's the place for a coffee or to start exploring the center.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes to the square; longer if you stop at a café.
Best time
In the morning, when the square is quieter for photos of Het Sweert, or late afternoon, when café tables fill up. In October, the jenever festivals usually liven up the center.
How to get there
From Hasselt station it's about a 15-minute walk, following signs to the center. De Lijn buses stop near the square.
Tip
Use the square as a starting point: the cathedral, the Stadsmus, the Virga Jessebasiliek and the shopping streets are all less than ten minutes on foot. The city's tourist office is a few steps from the cathedral.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grote Markt
What is Het Sweert?
It is a 17th‑century half‑timbered house on one corner of the Grote Markt, with exposed timber framing on the façade. It is protected as heritage and has become the square’s landmark.
What is near the Grote Markt?
The Sint-Quintinuskathedraal, less than 100 metres away; Het Stadsmus and the Virga Jessebasiliek, a few minutes; and the pedestrian streets with the city centre shops.
When are the jenever festivities?
They usually take place in October, over a weekend, with stalls in the centre and tastings of the drink. Check the dates for the year before you go.