Grote Markt (Haarlem)

The Grote Markt of Haarlem is a spacious medieval market square overlooked by the towering Grote Kerk of St Bavo and the Gothic town hall, with a statue of the printing pioneer Laurens Janszoon Coster at its centre. Merchant houses, the old meat hall and guild buildings line the surrounding sides, several now housing museums. Markets have been held here since the Middle Ages, and stalls still fill the square on set days. Cafés spread terraces beneath the great church, making it the social heart of the city.