Sint-Pietersplein

The Sint-Pietersplein is a vast, open expanse dominated by the looming, twin-towered facade of Saint Peter's Abbey. It serves as a parking garage roof, hiding hundreds of cars beneath its cobblestones. In the mid-nineteenth century, city planners leveled part of the original abbey gardens to create this space for public gatherings and markets. Before the asphalt and concrete, monks cultivated vineyards here, providing wine for the city. Now, the abbey church stands quiet while the square remains a frequent site for festivals.