Today, when you mention the name “Sablon” to local people, they mainly think of a district in the capital, a swanky area full of ostentatious brands, known for its antiques market, which takes place there every Saturday and Sun day. The church of the same name is very well known by Brussels residents and is a tourist hotspot. Place du Grand Sablon was also known as the “Horse Market” (a sign of the elitist nature of the district), before its operations shifted towards selling vegetables in the 19th century. Since the construction of the small square at the end of the 19th century, just beyond Rue de la Régence, people have distinguished Place du Grand Sablon (most often called “Sablon” by locals) from Place du Petit Sablon, which was designed by Henri Beyaert and opened to the public in 1890. The district was a hotspot for Frisian handball in the 19th and 20th centuries, but then entered a phase of decline. For the last few decades, it has deve loped a widespread reputation as a chic district, leading to the term “sablo nisation” being coined to describe a gentrification phenomenon affecting other districts. On 20 November each year, the Université Libre de Bruxelles marks its foundation and celebrates its founder, Théodore Verhaegen, during the traditional “Saint-Verhaegen” (or “Saint-V”) day. For this event, a parade of students gathers at Place du Grand Sablon.
Place du Grand Sablon
Location: Place du Grand Sablon, 1000 Brussels
