The Meat Hall

The Meat Hall was built in the early 17th century. The city needed a Meat Hall because the population was increasing, along with the demand for meat. The city council at that time wanted a richly decorated building made with the finest materials. This was realized by the city architect Lieven de Key, who used a lot of natural stone.


The building is one of the prime examples of Dutch Renaissance style, which is evident in the many striking ornaments. Notably, there are sheep and ox heads that refer to the original function of the hall. The Meat Hall is now the annex of the Frans Hals Museum. In the basement is the Archaeological Museum.

Address: Grote Markt 18.

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