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The Belfries of Flanders and Wallonia (Belgium)

Document type
Decision
Reference number
VIII.C.1
Date
Nov 29, 1999
Source
UNEP, 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.