15 August 2008

BELGIUM - The bi-annual carpet of flowers on the Market Square in Brussels opened to the public on Thursday evening.

The 700,000 begonias that make up the carpet of flowers were all grown by horticulturalists from the area around Lochristi in East Flanders. Around 1,000 volunteers worked on the impressive display of floral art.

This year's carpet of flowers is the 16th to adorn Brussels’ historic Market Square.

The event is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors between now and Sunday evening.

Mark Schautteet drew his inspiration for the design of this year's carpet of flowers from a real 18th century carpet that is on display in Brussels Town Hall. He designs floral carpets in towns and city's all over the world.

However, he told journalists that the carpet of flowers in Brussels holds a special place in his hart.

"Brussels has always been special. From the start there has always been a different theme. It is simply the best place for a carpet of flowers."

The carpet of flowers will remain on the Market Square until 17 August.

For a charge of EUR 3, visitors can enjoy a bird's eye view of the splendid floral display from the balcony of Brussels’ Town Hall.

[flandersnews.be / Expatica]

The bi-annual Brussels Flower Carpet has become a major event for locals and tourists alike. In preparation for the opening, teams of eager planters worked throughout the day to lay the intricate pattern of this year's design, La Savonnerie, based on designs from 18th century French tapestries.

The highlight for many is the sound and light shows in the evening when colours dance across the Grand Place, accompanied this time by an original score from Belgian composer Gregoire Dune.

Photo credit and caption: Andy Carling