× Information on this section of ECOLEX comes from the InforMEA Portal which compiled information from MEA Secretariats with the support of the European Union. The accuracy of the information displayed is the responsibility of the originating data source. In case of discrepancy the information as displayed on the respective MEA website prevails. The Belfries of Flanders and Wallonia (Belgium) Document type Decision Reference number VIII.C.1 Date Nov 29, 1999 SourceUNEP, InforMEA Status Active Subject Wild species & ecosystems Treaty Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Nov 23, 1972) Meeting 23e session du Comité Website whc.unesco.org Abstract Property: The Belfries of Flanders and Wallonia Id. N°: 943 State Party: Belgium Criteria: C (ii) (iv) The Committee inscribed the site on the World Heritage List on the basis of criteria (ii) and (iv): Criterion (ii): The belfries of Belgium are exceptional examples of a form of urban architecture adapted to the political and spiritual requirements of their age. Criterion (iv): The Middle Ages saw the emergence of towns that were independent of the prevalent feudal system. The belfries in the historic County of Flanders and in Wallonia symbolize this new-found independence, and also the links within them between the secular and religious powers. The Committee noted that this serial inscription was of particular interest as the monuments are located in different cities and regions of the State Party.