🇧🇪 Discovering Legends in the Heart of Antwerp

Antwerp, Belgium — a city where history stands tall and legends come alive in the heart of every square. On a crisp, overcast morning, I found myself wandering through the Grote Markt, Antwerp’s iconic main square, surrounded by grand guildhalls and the majestic Renaissance-style City Hall. But one monument in particular demanded my attention: the Brabo Fountain. Standing beneath this powerful sculpture, I couldn’t help but feel small in the best possible way. The fountain tells the legendary tale of Silvius Brabo, a Roman soldier who freed the city from the tyranny of the giant Antigoon. The story goes that Antigoon would demand a toll from those crossing the river Scheldt—and if they refused, he’d cut off their hands. Brabo defeated the giant, chopped off his hand, and threw it into the river. That act of rebellion and justice gave the city its name: Antwerpen — literally, “hand throwing.” 🗿 The statue is fierce and poetic, showing Brabo mid-throw, standing atop the beast he conquered. It’s more than a monument — it’s a symbol of resistance and freedom that echoes through the centuries. 📍 Must-See Tips for Visiting Grote Markt: • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and soak in the peaceful vibe. • Grab a coffee nearby and just sit and take in the architecture — every building here has a history. • Look up! The gold-tipped statues atop the guildhalls are stunning in any light. ⸻ Antwerp surprised me. It’s not just a port city or a fashion hub — it’s a living museum. If you’re heading to Belgium, don’t skip it. And when you stand at the base of the Brabo Fountain, look up, breathe in the legend, and take a moment to feel just how deep Europe’s stories go.