Broel Towers

Kortrijk, Belgium

The Broel Towers are known as one of the most important symbols of Kortrijk city. Although they look identical, the towers were not built at the same time. The Southern tower, also known as the Speyetoren, was built in 1385 to control the traffic on the river Lys. This tower was part of the fortified fence of the first medieval castle of the Counts of Flanders. The Speyentoren was also part of the 12th century rampart, destroyed by Louis XIV in the 17th century.

The Northern tower, known as the Ingelborchtoren was built in 1415 and was used as an armory.

Nowadays, the towers are, together with the Artillerytower, the last remaining parts of the medieval city wall around the city. Most of the fortifications in Kortrijk were ordered to be destroyed by Vauban in 1683, a period in which the French and the Spanish armies repeatedly fought over control of the region. The remaining parts were destroyed in the 18th century and during the world wars.

A statue of John of Nepomuk can be found in the middle of the bridge spanning between the two towers. This statue of the patron saint of the drowned has, ironically, fallen into the river Lys on several occasions due to warfare in the city. The bridge between the two towers was destroyed in both world wars.

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Details

Founded: 1385/1415
Category: Castles and fortifications in Belgium

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Hilde Damman (3 months ago)
The Triannial Kortrijk is an excellent opportunity to visit the left tower inside. You need to buy your ticket (Pay what you want) at tourist office or Texture. And with the same ticket you get access to other places. No ♿. Artists now, here, show you another way to explore space.? I skipped the video at the top floor. Couldn't stand the outcry of the deaf boy. Too loud for me.
Marek Sopko (4 months ago)
Ok, two towers on the river banks... what else?
Gill C (5 months ago)
Iconic towers on bridge over river Leie in centre of Kortrijk. Lovely setting for sitting outside for a drink or meal
Duncan Seed (17 months ago)
Cool towers either side of cobbled bridge besides the river. Steps and seating either side of river and lots of restaurants look like will be open in the evenings. We watched a wedding take place just beside the towers looks like it happens fairly regularly
Aarnoud De Rycker (20 months ago)
Cool historical landmark to checkout!
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