The heart of the city on the river Schelde is the Grand-Place, a square presenting an irregular plan and surrounded by wonderful houses, seat of the 16th and 17th century corporations and gilds. The statue of Brabo stands in the middle of the square. A Sixteenth century legend tells that the name ‘Antwerpen’ comes from Brabo’s action (‘hand werpen’, throw the hand). The Fifteenth century town hall is a perfect example of the association of the Flemish architectural style with Italian Renaissance elements.