Tooghuis

When you stand with your back to Jacob and look to the south, you see a pink house at the edge of the square with a large Baroque wooden gate. Originally, it was a very lavish house with a wooden facade. The remaining monumental gate gives us an idea of the size of the house: a small palace.

In front of this 18th-century mansion, there used to be a wooden house. In earlier times, it played an important political and social role in urban life. It was the place where public meetings were held from the 14th century onwards.

There was a large outdoor staircase leading to a wooden balcony on the first floor. From this balcony, anyone who wanted could have their say. One could hold their 'address' there.

This was also the spot where the aldermen gathered to catch a tournament or execution and where the leaders would come together during times of crisis. The deliberations were communicated to the people from the window.

In this building, the count addressed the people of Ghent after he was solemnly appointed and had sworn to uphold the privileges of the citizens of Ghent and the city. Here, on the balcony, he in turn received the oath of loyalty from the people.

"Now" a business of sewing machines & gift items... Perhaps something else later... Times change.

dtabruyn