Town hall of Gouda

The Town hall of Gouda, known locally as Stadhuis van Gouda, stands proudly in the heart of Gouda, Netherlands, gracing the Markt with its striking Gothic architecture. This 15th-century marvel is one of the oldest Gothic town halls in the Netherlands, and its rich history and distinctive design make it a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming Dutch city.

The History of the Town hall of Gouda

The story of the Town hall of Gouda begins in 1395 when the city administration acquired the market square from the Lords of Van der Goude to construct a new town hall. However, due to financial constraints, construction did not commence until 1448. The delay was a significant one, but the wait was worth it, as the resulting structure became a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The building was constructed using Belgian limestone, and its foundation was ingeniously supported by heavy oak beams rather than traditional piles.

The construction was overseen by Jan III Keldermans, a member of the renowned Keldermans family of architects from Mechelen, with contributions from his son Andries. By 1450, the building was already in use, and the final touches, including the tower, were completed in 1459. The town hall underwent several renovations over the centuries, including a significant refurbishment in 1497 to prepare for the visit of Philip the Handsome.

Architectural Marvels and Unique Features

The Town hall of Gouda is not just a historical building; it is a work of art. One of its most striking features is the Renaissance-style staircase, added in 1603 by the city sculptor Gregorius Cool. This grand staircase replaced the original drawbridge that once spanned the moat surrounding the building. The moat itself was filled in during the same period, transforming the town hall's surroundings.

Another remarkable feature is the scaffold at the rear of the building, constructed between 1692 and 1697. This scaffold replaced an earlier version mentioned as far back as 1525. Until 1897, prisoners were led up an external wooden staircase to the scaffold, as they were not permitted to walk through the town hall's interior. In 1897, during a visit by Queen Wilhelmina, one of the windows was replaced with double glass doors, allowing access to the balcony from inside the building.

The Facade and Its Statues

The facade of the Town hall of Gouda is adorned with statues that were added in 1960/1961. These statues include figures such as Charles the Bold, Philip the Good, Philip the Handsome, and Mary of Burgundy on the lower row, with Floris V and Jacoba of Bavaria above them. Before these statues were added, the facade featured two statues representing Wisdom and Steadfastness, created by the sculptor Jan Gijselingh Jr. in 1695. These were removed in 1882 to make way for windows and are now displayed in the garden behind the Gouda Museum.

Interior Splendor

The interior of the Town hall of Gouda boasts elements from the 17th and 18th centuries, including the stunning wall coverings in the wedding hall. These tapestries were created by David Ruffelaer, a renowned tapestry maker from Gouda, to commemorate the visit of Henrietta Maria of France, wife of King Charles I of England, in 1642. The tapestries were restored between 1948 and 1952 and continue to be a source of pride for the city.

Modern Additions and Cultural Significance

In the 1960s, a carillon was added to the side of the town hall, a gift from a local insurance company director. This carillon, known locally as the Bouwmeester's Carillon, features a performance titled Vrijheyt tot ter Goude, depicting Count Floris V granting city rights to Gouda in 1272. Additionally, an impressive war memorial, St. George and the Dragon by sculptor Oswald Wenckebach, was unveiled on the facade in 1948. Another notable addition is the relief Solomon’s Judgment by Eric Claus, unveiled in 1990 to symbolize tolerance, serving as a counterpart to the war memorial.

The Town hall of Gouda is not only a historical monument but also a cultural icon. A miniature version of the town hall can be found in Madurodam, a miniature city in The Hague, and a full-scale replica exists in the Japanese theme park Huis ten Bosch. The Latin inscription Audite et Alteram Partem above the entrance, meaning Hear the other side, underscores the building's enduring significance as a symbol of justice and fairness.

In conclusion, the Town hall of Gouda is a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Its Gothic splendor, fascinating history, and cultural significance make it an unmissable attraction for visitors to Gouda. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Town hall of Gouda offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a vibrant connection to the present.