Schepenhuis

Schepenhuis is a medieval building on the Grote Markt in Aalst, believed to be the oldest surviving aldermen's house in the Low Countries. Construction dates back to around 1225, and for centuries the building served as the meeting place for the city's aldermen, who handled the day-to-day governance of the town.

What is the building's history?

The original structure was built from Lede sandstone in an early Gothic style. In 1360, a fire swept through the city and destroyed the west and south facades, leaving only the north and east walls standing. Reconstruction followed in 1407: the west facade was rebuilt by Jan De Hase, while the south (front) facade was the work of Jan Van Goeteghem.

What does the wider complex include?

The Schepenhuis is not a standalone structure. Together with the belfry tower and the so-called Gebiedshuisje (regional house), it forms a single architectural ensemble on the Grote Markt. The belfry tower was added in 1407, and the regional house followed in 1447. The tower once housed the city's ordinances and official documents, while laws were proclaimed from the regional house.

What role did the building play over the centuries?

The Schepenhuis served as the gathering place for the city's aldermen, officials responsible for local administration and justice. Since the early 19th century, the building has housed a hospitality business, a use that continues today. The entire complex, including the Aalst belfry, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Belfries of Belgium and France.

Has the building been restored?

Yes. The complex underwent conservation work between 1987 and 2009, covering various parts of the town hall ensemble. In 2025, a thorough restoration of the belfry itself began, with exterior work expected to be completed by early 2027.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Schepenhuis located? The building stands on the Grote Markt (main square) in Aalst, in East Flanders, Belgium.

When was the Schepenhuis built? The original structure dates from around 1225, making it likely the oldest preserved aldermen's house in the Low Countries.

Why was the building rebuilt in the 15th century? A fire in 1360 destroyed two of its facades, so the west and south walls were reconstructed in 1407.

What is the building used for today? Since the early 19th century, the Schepenhuis has housed a hospitality business.

Is the Schepenhuis part of a larger complex? Yes — together with the belfry tower (1407) and the regional house (1447), it forms a single historic ensemble on the Grote Markt.