This panorama shows a pretty square next to St Rumbold's cathedral in the city of Mechelen, Belgium. Although Mechelen is one of the lesser known cities in Belgium, it is a historically important city in its own right. 

Though now in the shadow of Brussels, Mechelen is a historically important city in its own right. From 1506 to 1530 it was the capital of the Netherlands under Margaret of Austria. In 1559 it became an archbishopric, a sign of great importance. It was famous for its wood carvings, some of which can still be seen in the churches of the city, and for lace and tapestry manufacture.

Today it is a vibrant town, mixing trendy and traditional. Its carillon school is world-renowned, training students from all over the world in the art of playing carillons, sets of 24 or more bells hung in church towers. Shops downtown are often housed in buildings with the old-style Flemish architecture, but offer edgy fashions sure to appeal to the younger generation.

In the photo, you can see a section of the St. Rumbold's Cathedral (in Dutch: Sint-Romboutskathedraal) whose foundations go back to shortly after 1200.  Around the park and square, referred to as the cultural square, you can see some other historical buildings including the cultural center, the academy, the municipal conservatory and the Garage, a space for contemporary art. The old chappel on the corner is the "Heilige Geestkappel" (Chapel of the Holy Ghost) where the poorest of the poor came to look for help.

And, if you look closely along the street, you can see a "frituur" called "Rombout", a typical Belgian restaurant which specialises in Frenchfries.