BRUSSELS, Belgium — The equestrian statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, leader of the First Crusade, dominates the center of Place Royale. Sculpted by Eugene Simonis in 1848, the monument depicts the medieval crusader who became the first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. The historic Church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg provides a dramatic backdrop for this prominent Belgian historical monument.
Photograph by David Coleman. The monumental statue of Godfrey of Bouillon stands as a testament to one of medieval Belgium's most significant historical figures. Created by sculptor Eugene Simonis in 1848, this equestrian statue occupies the central position in Brussels' Place Royale, a neoclassical square designed in the 18th century. Godfrey of Bouillon, born around 1060, led the First Crusade in 1096 and became the first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, though he refused the title of king, preferring "Advocate of the Holy Sepulchre." The bronze statue depicts him in medieval armor atop his horse, a classical representation of medieval military leadership. The Church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, which frames the statue, dates from 1787 and represents Brussels' neoclassical architectural heritage. The Place Royale itself marks the location of the former Palace of Coudenberg, the historic seat of power in medieval Brussels.
Size: 6706px × 4476px
Location: Church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, Brussels, Brussels Region, Belgium
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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