Place Poelaert

Place Poelaert is the large paved square in front of the Palace of Justice, on the hill between the Marolles and Sablon districts of Brussels. It is one of the best-known viewpoints in the city and is popular with photographers, as the balustraded edge gives a broad panorama over the lower town, the Marolles rooftops and, in clear conditions, as far as the Atomium and the city's northern skyline. Behind the viewer rises the vast bulk of the Palace of Justice, with its columns and dome, which provides a dramatic backdrop to portraits and wide-angle shots. The square is free and open at all times, and most visitors spend 15 to 30 minutes, longer at sunset when the light turns golden and the city lights come on. The simplest approach is the free public glass lift from Rue de l'Epée in the Marolles, which delivers visitors to the square without a climb. Others walk up from the Sablon or reach it from Louise metro station on lines 2 and 6. Weekday mornings are quiet, while sunny evenings and weekends bring photographers, tour groups and locals taking in the view. Scaffolding on the palace has been a long-running feature and can appear in photographs. Pair the square with a visit to the Place du Jeu de Balle market, the antique shops of the Marolles and the Sablon, for a walking route covering the Upper and lower town. Visitors should be mindful of traffic around the edges of the square and keep valuables secure.