Brabo Fountain

In the heart of Antwerp’s medieval Grote Markt stands the Brabo Fountain, a striking sculpture by renowned Flemish artist Jef Lambeux. The fountain captures a man holding a severed hand, from which water flows, symbolizing the city’s origin story. According to legend, a Roman soldier named Silvius Brabo defeated a Russian giant who had demanded a toll of a hand from all who entered the city. Today, visitors can admire the detailed craftsmanship and learn about the myth that gave Antwerp its name, derived from the Dutch ‘hand werpen,’ meaning ‘hand throwing.’