Grand Place Mons

The Grand Place of Mons is an atmospheric and elegant square in the heart of the Hainaut capital. The square is dominated by the late Gothic city hall from the 15th century, with its famous bronze monkey (le Singe du Grand Garde) whose head visitors traditionally touch for good luck. Around it stand rococo facades, hospitality buildings, and boutiques. In 2015 Mons was European Capital of Culture, which led to a thorough redesign of the square.

Accessibility is largely good after the renovation. The square is almost entirely level with smooth natural stone strips that make wheelchair use comfortable. The city hall has an accessible side entrance with ramp and lift to the representative halls, although some historic rooms remain connected by stairs. The terraces on the square are mostly reachable at street level.

Adapted toilets are available at the tourist information point on the square and at the BAM museum a few minutes away. Disabled parking spaces are provided in the underground Grand Place car park, from which a lift leads directly to the square. The Grand Place is an ideal starting point for an accessible walk to the Mons Memorial Museum, the Sainte-Waudru Collegiate Church, and the Doudou heritage, part of the UNESCO list for intangible heritage.