The Whole of Brussels [antikvár]

Engraved panorama of Brussels printed by Martin de Taillyin 1639. A re-print of 1748 is shown in the Broodhuis.PREFACEBrussels, the city of contrasts! Coveted by some,disputed by others. A French language "oasis" inFlemish country. An historical symbol of a continuousstruggle against oppression. It is also a lovable town which may explain why it is heart-shaped like allthe towns in Brabant. Brussels, although a thousandyears old, has been obliged, at the end of the SecondWorld War, to adapt itself to the whirling evolution ofhousing and above all the unstoppable increase inmotor traffic. Everyone regrets that this modernIdevelopment has not always taken place within thebounds of good taste, but nevertheless the capital ofEurope has much to offer to those who are convincedthat beauty is not confined to Sienna, Toledo orRhodes.A visit to Brussels begins traditionally in the GroteMarkt. This "forum" has very frequently formed thehistorical centre of the town. The struggle for in-Brusse/s is still a lively town in spite of being a thousand.It has a double aspect: old and modern. A town ofmemories.Formidable architecture. An art centre on a world scale.Fascinating history full of love, violence and passion.