Handy Facts

Regarding “The Artistry of Antwerp” (Feb. 2). The photo of the Brabo fountain tells the story of the name Antwerp itself.

What is the heroic figure on the top of the fountain holding in his right hand? Answer: the hand of a giant who owned a large castle on the river and kept the city hostage. One young man was brave enough to take on the giant, and in the battle he pulled off the giant’s hand and threw it as far as he could; hence the name “Antwerp,” with “ant” meaning hand and “werp” meaning thrown. A local souvenir is a hand-shaped chocolate.

Did writer Kenneth Turan not hear the story in his stay there? Such stories make up the folklore and endear our travel memories.

SHERRILL J. WARREN

San Clemente