Roosevelt Square

Franklin Rooseveltplaats, internationally known as Roosevelt Square, is a large square in the heart of Antwerp, Belgium. It sits at the intersection of the Leien and the Turnhoutsebaan and is within walking distance of Koningin Astridplein and the city's central train station. The square has an eventful history that is closely tied to the development of the city. The Kipdorp Gate originally stood on this spot, part of the city walls built in the 16th century and torn down in 1860. First named Victorieplaats, its name honored the citizens' victory over the French Duke of Anjou. It was later renamed Gemeenteplaats before receiving its current name after World War II, in honor of the late U.S. president Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Architecturally, the square is defined by the Royal Athenaeum, designed and built between 1882 and 1884 by Pieter Jan August Dens and Ferdinand Truyman. While the square was once characterized by statues and lush plantings, its character has changed dramatically over time. Starting in the 1930s, public transportation took up more and more space. Today the square serves mainly as an important transit hub for buses and trams. With its numerous stops, it handles a large share of the city's bus service as well as several tram lines. Its proximity to other transit connections, such as the Opera metro station and Astridplein, makes it a central point for commuters and tourists alike.

In recent years, however, measures have been taken to reduce bus traffic in the city center and relieve pressure on the square. Many lines have been rerouted to other terminals. Major construction is also underway as part of the Noorderlijn project. Once this work is complete, the number of bus stops is set to be significantly reduced, while new tram connections will be created and a previously unused tunnel will be put into service for tram traffic. These changes are meant to make the square more usable as an urban space again and to improve the traffic situation.