M o n u m e n t s
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M o n u m e n t s | |
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Address: Sint-Baafsplein 17
In the Middle Ages Ghent was one of the most important places for the trade of wool and cloth. All cloth made within a mile of the boundaries of the town had to be brought to the cloth hall. Here, the textile was inspected and measured by three halleheren (inspectors of the hall).
The construction of the hall started in 1425, after plans by master Simon van Assche. Already in 1441, with only 7 of the 11 planned bays completed, the works were put to a stop. At that moment the cloth trade was already past its peak and it was useless to finish the building.
The incomplete cloth hall served other purposes. Since 1613, the municipal fencing-school and the militia guild of Saint-Michael were installed on the first and second floor. From 1742 to 1902, the crypt served as the town jail. The remaining 4 bays were only added in 1903.
Nowadays, the tourist office is situated on the ground floor. The first floor can be rented for temporary manifestations linked with the historical meaning of the building. On the second floor, the Museum of the Guild of Saint Michael recently opened its doors. Here the rich tradition of the Ghent Saint Michaels' Guild is shown in an intelligible and fascinating way. The attic is used as a training room for the fencing-school.
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Last update:11/08/2003 - © 2003 CITY OF GHENT.