Beneath the Maison de l’Étoile, a Brussels hero quietly watches over the city. The monument to Éverard t’Serclaes, much more than just a sculpture, is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the magic andhistory of Brussels. Here’s more about it.
The Monument to Éverard t’Serclaes, a Brussels Hero
You can’t miss the Monument to Éverard t’Serclaes during a stroll through the Grand-Place. Located under the arcade of the Maison de l’Étoile, at the corner of Rue Charles Buls, this masterpiece by Julien Dillens was unveiled in 1902. The work draws inspiration from Italian Renaissance funerary monuments, but above all tellsthe legend of a man who saved Brussels in 1356.
That night, Éverard t’Serclaes led a handful of patriots to liberate the city from Flemish troops. This heroic act earned him a special place in the hearts of the people of Brussels. But his story also has a tragic ending. Assassinated in 1388 by rivals, he became a symbol of municipal autonomy.
The monument—listed as a historic monument since 2002—consists of three superimposed bas-reliefs. They depict key episodes in local history. First, the recapture of Brussels. Next, the joyful entry of Duchess Jeanne and Duke Wenceslas. And finally, the revenge of the people of Brussels against Gaesbeek Castle. At the bottom, the recumbent figure of Éverard t’Serclaes, draped in a shroud, intrigues the viewer. One detail is worth noting: a woman is shown removing a bird from a basket. This is a nod to the nickname “Kiekefretters” (chicken eaters) given to the city’s inhabitants.
Stroking Luck: An Unmissable Ritual in Brussels
Today, the Monument to Éverard t’Serclaes has become a real magnet for tourists and the superstitious. Legend has it that touching the statue brings good luck, protects against misfortune, or grants wishes. Some recommend stroking the recumbent figure’s right hand, while others prefer to run their hand over the dog at his side to attract good fortune.
This monument, deeply rooted in Brussels tradition, has even required several restorations. Wear and tear on the brass—polished by thousands of hands—forced the city to replace the original with a replica in 2016. The original now sits safely out of the elements, while the replica continues to draw crowds beneath the arcades.
The monument to Éverard t’Serclaes remains a must-see, a hidden gem to discover on your next trip to Brussels. Another legend says that touching the statue guarantees you’ll return to Brussels! A good reason to be superstitious!
📍Address: Grand Place 9, 1000 Brussels
