The "Commune Libre de Ilot Sacre", or Free Township of Ilot Sacre, is a Brussels neighborhood with a specific set of planning guidelines laid down in 1960 by the Brussels legislature in order to preserve its historic character. For instance, no perpendicular signboards may be hung, and only indirect lighting is allowed; also, there are very tight restrictions on the renovation of facades that encourage the use of red Spanish brick and construction in the style of the 17th and 18th centuries. Ilot Sacre is the most prominent of seven islets established at the time. It is often called ventre de Bruxelles" or "the stomach of Brussels" because so many restaurants are located there.
Ilot Sacres' borders are defined by the "Rue des Fripiers", the "Rue de l'Ecuyer", the "Rue d'Arenberg", the "Rue de la Montagne" and the "Rue du Marche aux Herbes".