Black Tower: A Medieval Relic in Modern Brussels

The Black Tower, known in French as Tour Noire and in Dutch as Zwarte Toren, is a captivating vestige of Brussels' medieval past. Constructed in the early 13th century, it formed part of the city's initial defensive walls. These walls, stretching approximately 4 kilometers, were crucial for safeguarding Brussels from invasion. As Brussels expanded, a second set of walls was erected in the late 14th century, rendering the Black Tower obsolete. However, unlike many other sections of the original fortifications, the Black Tower survived, possibly due to its conversion into private property. In the 16th century, it even withstood the creation of a new dock for the inland port, where the Church of St. Catherine now stands. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone several transformations. At one point, it served as a tavern named 'In the Tower'. In 1888, then-mayor Charles Buls intervened to save it from demolition during a street sanitation project. Architect Victor Jamaer restored the tower, reconstructing its gable and roof. Today, the Black Tower stands as a historical monument, a striking contrast to the modern hotel that surrounds it. A plaque commemorates its historical importance. While the interior is not accessible to the public, visitors can explore the tower's exterior and appreciate its Gothic design. The surrounding Place Sainte-Catherine offers a vibrant atmosphere with cafes, shops, and local art. The Black Tower is conveniently located near other attractions, including the Grand Place and the Church of St. Catherine.