Final stretch for restoration of Belfry and Cloth Halls in Ypres

Final stretch for restoration of Belfry and Cloth Halls in Ypres
Credit: Belga

The restoration of the Belfry and Cloth Halls in Ypres (Ieper) will enter its final phase this year, Flemish Heritage Minister Matthias Diependaele (N-VA) announced on Thursday.

This will focus on renovating the wings housing the Ypres Museum and the Council Chamber, two corner towers and the Nieuwerck. Restoration work began in 2020.

The Flemish Government has approved a five-year subsidy for this refurbishment. The total subsidy amounts to €8.7 million.

The first two phases of the restoration have been completed. The belfry tower and the west wing were renovated during these phases. The third phase, which includes work on the east wing, will be completed in summer 2024.

"Work on the roof of the Halles aux draps (phase 4) will start this year, and the final phase, which involves the Yper Museum wing, the Council Chamber wing, two corner towers and the Nieuwerck, will be put out to tender," says Diependaele.

Throughout the restoration work, the craftsmen are endeavouring to preserve the original materials. The Belfry, built in the 13th century, destroyed during the First World War and then rebuilt identically, is a symbol of the town.

What was left of Cloth Hall in 1918, Ypres. Credit: Canadian Expeditionary Force albums

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