Oudenaarde Town Hall

Oudenaarde Town Hall, known locally as Stadhuis van Oudenaarde, stands as a magnificent testament to the grandeur of late Brabantine Gothic architecture. Nestled in the heart of Oudenaarde in the Belgian province of East Flanders, this architectural gem is not just a visual feast but a monument steeped in history and culture.

The History of Oudenaarde Town Hall

The origins of Oudenaarde Town Hall trace back to a time when the old town hall had become dilapidated and unsafe. In 1525, recognizing the need for a new and more fitting building, the city council commissioned Hendrik van Pede, a master builder from Brussels, to create a new town hall. Over a span of ten years, from 1526 to 1536, van Pede crafted the monumental structure that stands today.

Interestingly, the original design of the town hall was intended to be U-shaped. However, the plan was modified, resulting in the current L-shaped configuration. The right side façade along Nederstraat remains unfinished, yet it retains visible elements of the old aldermen's house. The use of Tournai limestone in the upper sections of the building adds to its historical allure, with parts of the structure dating back to 1509-1510.

Architectural Marvels

The façade of Oudenaarde Town Hall is a symphony of intricate details and grand design. Constructed primarily from Balegem sandstone, the façade features elements made from Écaussinnes sandstone, Avesnes stone, and local wood from the Mons region. The use of Spanish iron and Antwerp's lead and gold leaf (an astonishing 6,500 sheets) further accentuates the building's opulence.

One of the most striking features of the town hall is its belfry, crowned with the imperial crown and a bronze statue of Hanske the Warrior, a local folk hero. According to legend, Hanske was a city watchman who fell asleep while awaiting the arrival of Emperor Charles V. The emperor, finding the gates closed, humorously suggested that the citizens of Oudenaarde equip their watchmen with binoculars—a jest immortalized in the city's coat of arms.

The Belfry: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The belfry of Oudenaarde Town Hall is not just an architectural highlight but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recognized on December 1, 1999, as part of the group registration of Belfries in Belgium and France, the belfry symbolizes the historical significance and enduring legacy of these structures. Recent restorations have replaced the sculptures on the towers with replicas made from durable northern French stone, ensuring their preservation against air pollution.

Exploring the MOU Museum

Within the walls of Oudenaarde Town Hall lies the MOU Museum (Museum Oudenaarde and the Flemish Ardennes), a treasure trove of historical artifacts and exhibits. The museum boasts an impressive collection of tapestries and silverware, reflecting Oudenaarde's rich heritage in these crafts.

Tapestries

Oudenaarde was once a renowned center for tapestry production, and the museum proudly displays a collection of 23 tapestries, with 13 permanently exhibited in the upper cloth hall of the town hall. These exquisite pieces offer a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship that flourished in Oudenaarde.

Silversmithing

Between the 15th and 18th centuries, Oudenaarde was a hub for silversmithing. The museum's collection includes a remarkable array of Oudenaarde silver, curated by Ernest De Boever-Alligoridès, complemented by other significant works of European silver. These pieces highlight the town's historical importance in the world of silversmithing.

The Grand Halls

The interior of Oudenaarde Town Hall is as impressive as its exterior, with several grand halls that have served various purposes over the centuries. The most notable rooms include the People's Hall, the Aldermen's Hall, the Superintendent's Hall, and the Silver Hall, along with the cloth hall and the museum.

The People's Hall, with its ornate mantelpiece and ceiling, was originally used for trade and other activities. The Aldermen's Hall, now serving as a wedding hall, features a series of paintings depicting famous visitors to Oudenaarde, including Margaret of Parma.

The Cloth Hall

Adjacent to the town hall is the Cloth Hall, a structure dating back to the 14th century and modified in the 17th century. This hall was once a storage and inspection area for the town's cloth makers, reflecting Oudenaarde's historical role in the textile industry.

A Touch of Trivia

Adding to its historical charm, the Belgian Pavilion at the 1900 Paris Exposition was a replica of Oudenaarde Town Hall. This steel and concrete construction by François Hennebique showcased the architectural brilliance of the town hall on an international stage.

In conclusion, Oudenaarde Town Hall is not just an architectural masterpiece but a living museum of the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Its walls tell stories of craftsmanship, artistry, and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the picturesque town of Oudenaarde.