M o n u m e n t s

B e l f r y   -    T h e   s e c r e c y   r o o m


1. The secrecy room was fitted up as a records department in 1402. Here, the valuable municipal privileges were kept in a heavy trunk, fortified by iron belts or heavy nails and attached to the floor by means of a chain.

The room is spanned by an impressive cross rib vaulting. In the centre is an opening covered by a wooden hatch. This was the way through which the bells were put up and down.

Since 1339 four stone tower keepers stood on the corners of the towers. In 1870 the last one was carried down. New stone tower keepers, flanked by shield-bearing lions, were placed in 1913. In the secretium the last original keeper and the casts of the new statues can be seen.

Belfry

Last update:21/10/2002 - © 2001 CITY OF GHENT.