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Square · Binche, Hainaut
Grand-Place of Binche
Binche’s central square, with the town hall of Gothic arcades and the 35 m belfry, which is part of the Belfries of Belgium and France inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Grand-Place of Binche
The Grand-Place is the heart of Binche and the final stage of the carnival. The main building is the town hall, which in the past housed the covered market, the communal butcher and the meeting place of the city magistrates.
The three Gothic arcades on the ground floor and the base of the belfry, in sandstone, are likely from the 14th century. After the fire of 1554, during the war with France, Mary of Hungary commissioned architect Jacques Du Brœucq for the reconstruction. The façade bears the arms of Charles V and the monogram of his sister.
The brick belfry is about 35 m high, has three clock faces and a bulbous spire. It is part of the group of Belgian and French belfries on the World Heritage list and is classified as major heritage of Wallonia.
Around the square there are cafés and the tourist office, the starting point for guided tours of the town.
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
About 30 minutes; longer with a guided tour.
Best time
At any time of year, during daytime. The interior of the town hall and the belfry only open for guided visits or events; check with the tourist office.
How to get there
In the heart of Binche; from the station walk along the main street to the square.
Tip
Ask at the tourist office, on the square itself, about guided tours of the historic center, which include the town hall, the walls and the palace ruins.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grand-Place of Binche
Is the belfry of Binche a World Heritage site?
Yes. It is part of the group of belfries of Belgium and France inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
What happens on the Grand-Place of Binche during carnival?
It is the arrival point for the processions and for the Gilles’ final rondeau on Shrove Tuesday.
Can you enter Binche’s town hall?
On guided tours and at some events. Check the dates at the tourist office on the square.