Aalst Station

The station of Aalst was designed in 1852 by the architect Jean Pierre Cluysenaar. On July 6, 1856, the station was officially inaugurated by the then crown prince Leopold II. The building was designed as a mix between a medieval castle and a Gothic town hall. The building was constructed in Boomse papenstone and blue hardstone. This gives it a resemblance to Tudor Gothic. This is a specific form of Gothic that is particularly popular in England. In 1890, the two side pavilions and the awning on the platform side were added. In 1975, the station was in poor condition, and therefore a demolition request was submitted. However, this received much criticism, as the station has a unique and historical character. A Royal Decree in 1978 ensured that the station and its surroundings were protected from demolition. In September 1990, the station was indeed demolished, except for the facade. Thus, it is the only city station by Jean Pierre Cluysenaar that still exists. In 2001, it was decided to significantly revamp the station area. 15 years later, the station was also made wheelchair accessible.

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