Everard t’Serclaes, rebellious citizen of Brussels

Visit Brussels - Jean-Paul Remy

Everard t’Serclaes was a five-time alderman in 14th-century Brussels, where he was known as a rebellious man. As the leader of a popular uprising against the Count of Flanders, he earned eternal fame. However, he came to a bloody end. Many places in and around Brussels still recall the memory of Everard t’Serclaes.

He was a freedom fighter avant le lettre

Everard t’Serclaes is an important figure in Brussels’ history. His statue, known as a bringer of good luck, still stands on the corner of the Grand-Place. It refers to his gruesome death, the consequence of his rebellious nature.

During the Brabantine conflicts, the powerful Lord of Gaasbeek Castle tried to expand his power and estate. T’Serclaes rose up against him, an act that would eventually cost him his life. He was overpowered by a few followers of the castle lord. He was tortured gruesomely, they cut off his foot, and sliced out his tongue. A few days later, he died of his injuries.

Visit Brussels - Jean-Paul Remy

'Kiekenfretters'

His death provoked a fierce reaction among the people of Brussels, who laid siege to Gaasbeek Castle to avenge t’Serclaes. Eventually, the lord of Gaasbeek admitted guilt, and his castle was razed to the ground. The siege lasted more than a month, so the people of Brussels needed plenty of supplies to get through that period. According to legend, they ate all the chickens in the surrounding area. For this reason, Brussels locals still carry the nickname ‘Kiekenfretters’ (Chicken eaters) to this day.

Visit Brussels - Jean-Paul Remy

Visit castles and monuments in and around Brussels

Many places still recall the memory of Everard t’Serclaes. You can find his statue on the corner of the Grand Place, in the gallery under De Sterre Legend has it that rubbing the statue’s right arm brings good luck The best way to get a real feel for the story of this brave citizen of Brussels is to visit the locations and castles in and around the city.