This imposing structure dates from the 13th century.

In the 16th century, the towers were lowered and the roof construction was altered to the present configuration.

[1] In the course of the centuries, the building had many different uses: from police station to youth centre, from duty collector's office to artist's workshop (Alfred Ost).

It then became a museum about the city's history containing documents and archaeological finds.

The collection of the De Maan City Puppet Theater is currently stored there.