The Town Hall of Bergen op Zoom has a long and at times turbulent history. In this location, a Schepenhuis, the administrative heart of the city, already stood in the Middle Ages. That first building was lost completely in a major city fire in 1397, along with the city archives. Shortly thereafter, a new, stone “Stadhuus” was built, but that too was partially destroyed in a second fire in 1444 and rebuilt.

In the centuries that followed, the complex continued to grow. In 1498, the Leeuwenborch property was added, which was first home to Lombard financiers and later English merchants. In 1544, the De Oliphant house was also added, which partly overhangs the narrow Sint-Annastraatje. Thus, the remarkable building as we know it today, constructed from several historic properties, slowly took shape.

During the Twelve Years' Truce in 1611, the complex was given a new, impressive facade. It is made of Gobertange stone and beautifully shows the transition from late Gothic to Renaissance. The lower part is Gothic and even contains reused stones from older houses. At the top, you can see Renaissance elements such as statues in niches, elegant volutes, and a stately gable. Above that are the coats of arms of Bergen op Zoom and Brabant, with the proud motto below: “I overcome a thousand dangers” I survive a thousand dangers.

Once, in this building, administration, judiciary, and legislature were all in one hand. The statues of Prudentia (prudence) and Justitia (justice) on the facade are a reminder of this. Today, the town hall is still in use: for council meetings, political gatherings, and as a beloved wedding venue. A building full of history, in the heart of the city.

Curious? Go to www.stadsgidsen-bergenopzoom.nl

General information

• Type: National monument, administrative building
• Address: Grote Markt 1, Bergen op Zoom
• Visits: Limited access, see for more information: www.stadsgidsen-bergenopzoom.nl