Since the Middle Ages, the Grand Place has been the beating heart of Lier, which was granted city rights in 1212. For centuries, small and large events have taken place here: markets, processions, events, etc.
The triangular shape would indicate its Frankish origin.
In 1914, most of the buildings on the Grand Place were destroyed. Miraculously, the belfry and the town hall suffered little damage. After WWI, some buildings were rebuilt in their original form, others were built in different neo-styles.
Between 2010 and 2012, the Grand Place was redesigned to mark the 800th anniversary of the city.
Near the belfry you will notice a brass strip laid into the stones: the meridian line of Adolphe Quetelet. In the 19th century, Quetelet used a corner of the town hall as a gnomon for his sundial. When the sun is at its zenith, the dividing line between light and shadow forms the meridian.
Hidden between the cobblestones is also a witch stone, a round stone referring to the burning at the stake of suspected witches. The city council of Lier paid a symbolic tribute in 2021.
