Everard 'T Serclaes (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Everard 'T Serclaes?
What makes it 75% Solo-Friendly: The free-access statue sits on Grand-Place route, offers history plaques, easy photo stop, no time limit, so a solo traveler can visit flexibly without needing facilities.
Positives:
- No Admission Fee: The monument is free to access at any time of day.
- Central Location: Situated at Grand-Place, it is easy to combine with other city sights.
- Local Tradition: Touching the statue is said to bring luck and ensure a return visit.
Challenges:
- Crowded Passage: The narrow gallery can fill up with tour groups, limiting photo space.
- Limited Facilities: No seating or restrooms on site; plan ahead for breaks elsewhere.
What is Everard 'T Serclaes?
- A bronze bas-relief sculpture installed within a covered arcade at the corner of Rue Charles Buls and the Grand-Place
- A commemorative monument depicting 14th-century Brussels hero Everard ’t Serclaes, crafted by sculptor Julien Dillens in 1897
- An integral element of the historic streetscape, seamlessly set into the ornate gallery archway of central Brussels
What is so special about Everard 'T Serclaes for solo trip?
- Quick solo stop with a hands-on interactive tradition.
- Insight into Brussels’ medieval history through detailed carvings.
- Free outdoor attraction next to the iconic Grand-Place.
- Easy addition to self-guided or tip-based walking tours.
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 hour
Why 0.5-1 hour visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to touch the statue, study the reliefs, and join a nearby walking tour without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Everard 'T Serclaes
Touch Everard ’t Serclaes for luck:
Place your left hand on the statue’s wrist to follow the local tradition and wish for good fortune.
Tip: Approach early to avoid crowds and use a cloth if you prefer not to touch the bronze directly.
Study the Bas-Relief Panels:
Read the three historical scenes carved above the statue to learn about Brussels’ 14th-century events.
Tip: Look for the 1356 city recapture relief; bring a phone light if visiting at dusk.
Join a Tip-Based Walking Tour:
Start at the statue to meet a guide who covers central Brussels history and landmarks.
Tip: Allocate €10–€15 for a tip and confirm tour start times online in advance.
Photograph the Grand-Place Archway:
Frame the city’s main square through the monument’s covered passage for a dynamic shot.
Tip: Stand slightly left of center to include the bas-relief and square in one image.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Everard 'T Serclaes
- Visit at Opening Time: Aim for 9–10 AM to enjoy the site before peak tour hours.
- Use Offline Maps: Save a map of Brussels on your phone to navigate from the statue to other landmarks without data.
- Pack a Light Cloth: Carry a small cloth to protect your hand when touching the bronze.
Reviews of Everard 'T Serclaes
Л. В.
It’s tradition to touch it for good luck!
Dwi Febriyan
My tour guide said that if you touch the statue from head to toe, you’ll come back to Brussels but if you go from toe to head, it’s bad luck. I’m not sure if I believe it, but I touched it anyway from head to toe. Funny enough, I’ve been back to Brussels multiple times! Coincidence? Maybe. But it’s a fun little tradition to try.
Krzysztof Zakowicz
In a bronze statue of the Belgian hero. People touching in certain places, where some say it will bring you luck others have no idea why they touch it. Personal preference I suppose.
Duc C. Nguyên
Monument à Éverard t’Serclaes, 1902 by Julien Dillens Everard t’Serclaes: the 14th-century Brussels hero who snuck into the city, kicked out the Flemish, became a five-time alderman, and then got fatally ambushed over a land dispute. Today, his bronze statue stays shiny because everyone rubs it for luck — apparently, giving his arm a good polish can grant wishes and guarantee a return to Brussels...
Graeme Lynch
Fantastic looking sculpture which we noticed everyone touching as we left Grand Place. Took some pictures and found out later that if you touch it you will have good luck. So I recommend touching it and not just taking pictures like we did.
When is the best time to visit Everard 'T Serclaes (Brussels, Belgium)?
In winter, wear gloves over your left hand to stay warm before touching the bronze. In summer, visit early morning when the archway offers cool shade. During public holidays, expect larger tour groups near the statue.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Statue visit | EUR 0 |
| Tip-based walking tour tip | EUR 15 |
| Coffee at nearby café | EUR 3.5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 18.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Everard 'T Serclaes
Address: Grand Place 9, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Everard 'T Serclaes (Brussels)?
About Everard 'T Serclaes
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official Website10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities