Sadly, the only remnants of the first church here, built in the fifteenth century is its Baroque tower, added in 1629. Inspired by the Eglise St-Eustache in Paris, the present church was redesigned in 1854-59 by Joseph Poilaert in a variety of styles. Notable features of he interior include a fourteenth century statue of the Black Madonna and a portrait of St Catherine herself. A typically Flemish pulpit was installed as some stage; it may have come from the parish of Mechelen. Two impressive tombs ewer carved by Gilles-Lambert Godecharls.

Although this area has been dedicated to the saint since the thirteenth century, the square of Place Ste-Catherine was only laid in front of this large church after the basin once here was filled in.

The central square was once the city’s main fish market, and thins is still the best place to indulge in a dish or two o Brussels’ famous seafood, but prices are generally high. Flanking the square, Brick Quay and Timber Quay, contains lively parades of fish restaurants.