The medieval castle remains discovered in Ypres will be reburied, announced Ben Weyts, Flemish Minister for Heritage, on Friday.
The archaeological discovery, unearthed during the construction of a new supermarket, will be protected but not displayed. The Flemish government, the city of Ypres, and the landowner have agreed on this decision. Although they were open to making the medieval castle wall accessible to the public, the estimated cost of €10 million was prohibitive.
Efforts are underway to safeguard the site underground. “We will use the latest technologies to make the manorial site tangible to residents of Ypres and all Flemings,” Weyts stated. “Flanders is allocating the necessary funds. Sometimes, dreams have to be shelved. Despite our best efforts, it is unrealistic to justify an initial investment of at least €10 million and additional costs in future years.”
Construction on the Vandepeereboomplein includes a supermarket and apartments. During this work, archaeologists found remains of a medieval castle wall, which housed the Counts of Flanders until 1130. The building project will proceed, but the foundation plans will be adjusted to preserve the archaeological remains undamaged.
