Flanders has a very rich and varied heritage. Belfries, citadels, fortified towns, half-timbered houses... many discoveries in perspective!
Flanders has a very rich and varied heritage. Belfries, citadels, fortified towns, half-timbered houses... many discoveries in perspective!
The belfries are one of the symbols of the Hauts-de-France. In the Middle Ages, they allowed the inhabitants of the towns to free themselves from religious authority and feudal power. 23 of them are listed as UNESCO heritage sites, including the Belfry of Bailleul. Climb to the top of one these giants for a stunning view of the region!
Windmills are typical elements of the Flanders' landscapes. At the beginning of the 19th century, nearly 3000 of them were in operation and used to produce flour or oil. In the region, each village had at least one. Windmills were favoured over water mills that could not function in the area due to the lack of large rivers. Equipped with asymmetrical wings, the windmills of Flanders have technical specificities that can only be found in the region. While most of them have disappeared or are in ruins, some have been renovated. There are now about 50 windmills, and 7 of them in Destination Coeur de Flandre.
Half-timbered houses
Also known as "timber-framed houses", half-timbered houses were widespread in Flanders. Once rare, these 16th century wooden houses are now back in fashion. They are made of wooden cladding and the walls are covered with more or less regular planks. The advantage of these houses was that they were less expensive than brick constructions and could be quickly dismantled. The wooden frame, once typical of Dutch culture, was replaced by bricks.
From the end of the Middle Ages, the material, characteristic of northwestern Europe, became widespread, and the wooden frames were only observed exceptionally. It was at the same time that Flemish gables, once a symbol of a stately habitat, spread to become a mere decorative motif.
Flemish architecture
Brick and wattle and daub were the most commonly used materials in the construction of Flemish houses. The crow-stepped gables or "Flemish gables" are also distinctive elements of regional architecture. Traditional details, such as the lintel of the doors, characterize also these constructions. They are composed of dark hues and raw materials that contrast with the wooden floors and furniture. The roof is made with hollow tiles in warm orange tones. These rustic and charming houses exude a friendly and warm atmosphere, typical of the region.
Were you inspired by all these architectural features? What if you enrolled in a pre-preparatory architecture program? You will be able to contribute to the preservation of this rich heritage while letting it inspire you with ideas for the architecture of tomorrow.
Valérie from Comme des Français
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