This handsome, cobblestoned square is flanked by a tasteful ensemble of high-gabled brick buildings. Some of these date from the 18th century, while others are comparatively new. At ground level, these buildings house the larges concentration of bars and cafes in town, and as such, attract the town’s university students in droves. *
We passed through the square on several occasions and felt the lively vibrant atmosphere but I didn’t feel the urge to dwell and soak it up. I preferred the vibrant but calmer atmospheres of other parts of Leuven.
Within the square is one of the numerous Leuven statues:
Statue by Fred Bellefroid built in 1984 in honour of the kotmadam. “Kot” is Flemish slang for a student room, and the “kotmadam” is the landlady of the building, who would prepare meals for the students, tidy their rooms and help them when help was needed.
*from the Eyewitness Travel Guide to Belgium and Luxembourg
Perhaps related to the Ood, on Dr.Who ? Mind you those distant cousins of the Oude do not seem to have created such lovely architectural delights. But I can see them happily sitting outside the cafe nursing their orbs and a cup of Belgian Choco-lait, discussing the fearful possibilities of bicycles.
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Oods on bicycles… Now there’s a thought
You know how much we want to go see this place now, Cherry. Astrid and I mention it every time we see these posts from you.
I hope you get the chance to visit soon
Cobblestones play merry hell with high heels.
I didn’t know you were into such things
As for me I only wear sensible shoes when I am walking around Belgium towns.
hahahahaha…good one,Cherie!!!!
i like your picture of the square with the beautiful architecture behind it Cherie…
i would like to have seen a closer look at the bronze statue of the “kotmadam” it looks beautiful from here….peter:)
I would have loved to have seen a better view of the statue too. It was always surrounded by people and bicycles making it impossible to view.
This was the one evening that I was able to see enough of the statue to be able to take a photograph.