Tucked beneath the arcades of the Maison de l’Étoile near the Grand Place, the statue of Everard t’Serclaes is one of Brussels’ most storied and superstitious landmarks. Sculpted by Julien Dillens in 1902, the bronze monument commemorates the 14th-century patriot who famously reclaimed the city from Flemish occupation in 1356. The recumbent figure, draped in a shroud, evokes the style of Renaissance funerary art and is surrounded by bas-reliefs depicting key episodes from Brussels’ medieval history. According to legend, touching the statue—particularly the arm or the dog at his side—brings good luck or ensures a return to the city. This tradition has made the monument a magnet for visitors, its polished surface gleaming from countless hands. Though the original was moved indoors in 2016 to preserve it, a faithful replica continues to draw crowds on Rue Charles Buls. More than a tribute to a local hero, the statue of Everard t’Serclaes is a living ritual—where history, myth, and civic pride converge in bronze.
Brussels BelgiumThe Statue of Everard t'Serclaes is located at the corner of Rue Charles Buls and the Grand Place, beneath the Maison de l’Étoile in central Brussels. This celebrated bronze monument, crafted by Julien Dillens and inaugurated in 1902, commemorates the 14th-century Brussels hero who led the charge to liberate the city from Flemish occupation. The reclining figure of t'Serclaes has become a symbol of good luck—local tradition holds that touching the statue, especially its arm, brings fortune and ensures a return to Brussels, which is why the bronze gleams from countless visitors’ hands. The statue’s prime location places it just steps from the Grand Place, Brussels’ UNESCO-listed central square, renowned for its ornate guildhalls and vibrant atmosphere. Nearby, visitors can also explore the Brussels City Hall, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the Manneken Pis statue, and a host of cafés, shops, and museums that make this area the city’s cultural and historical heart. The monument is not only a testament to Brussels’ storied past but also a must-see stop for anyone exploring the city’s most iconic sights.