Old Factory Building

In the middle of the street, to the right of the parking lot, you will discover the oldest factory building in Ronse. Notice the initials of the contractor Théodore Vandendaele. You can see that the building has several floors and that the façade was designed in an extremely rhythmic manner. The neo-Romanesque style of the building is identifiable by the large arched windows designed to let in a maximum of light.

Later in the 20th century, they undertook to build factory buildings with a single floor, for the simple reason that the machines were becoming too heavy. The roofs also had a completely different appearance. You can easily picture them, those famous sawtooth roofs (also called "rekkem roofs"). Furthermore, the newer factories were completely devoid of windows. Only the northern part of the roof was glazed in order to ensure a constant supply of light into the factory.

Do you see the park? Cross it and head towards the church. From here, you have a very nice view of the remarkable new St. Martin's Church. Consecrated in 1896, it was intended to replace the old church we observed earlier during our walk.
This building is considered a typical example of neo-Gothic stone architecture: a perfect imitation of the primitive Gothic style of Flemish churches. Its plans were drawn up by the architect from Ledegem, Modeste De Noyette, who also designed the former civil hospital of Ronse.
Now walk around St. Martin's Church to the right to reach Midi Street.

Patrimundo