Schepenhuis, Aalst

The Schepenhuis (Aldermen's House) of Aalst, East Flanders, Belgium, is a former city hall, one of the oldest in the Low Countries.

Dating originally from 1225, it was partially rebuilt twice as a result of fire damage, first after a 1380 war and again after a fireworks accident in 1879.

The belfry tower at one corner of the building was completed in 1460, and in the next year was equipped with a carillon built by master craftsmen from Mechelen.

This was the motto of Spain's Philip II, whose domain expanded into the Low Countries in 1555.

A small wing of late Gothic style, facing the market square and adorned with five life-size statues, was added in the 16th century.

Depiction of the Schepenhuis of Aalst by Gustave Walckiers in 1880