Belfry of Nieuwpoort

The belfry of Nieuwpoort is conceived as a partial extension of the front of the building. It towers over the rectangular hall of 14th century origin belonging to the cross-border brick Gothic. During the First World War, the tower was dynamited and the halle, along with the entire city, was almost completely destroyed. In 1921-1923, the belfry and the halle were reconstructed according to a historical model. The crowning has now been worked out, so that the belfry is more in line with the regional church towers. The hall has the same appearance as the first one, which was probably built in 1280 in late Gothic style.Source: kuipendbelgie.be/nl/beziensworthheden/belfort-van-nieuwpoort/1873

An interesting anecdote about the belfry of Nieuwpoort concerns the "Hermanstoren". In the 14th century, the belfry was provided with a jacquemart, a mechanical clock with wooden figures that struck the bell every hour. The largest figure was called Herman, and the tower was therefore called the Hermanstoren. This gave the tower a unique identity and made it a recognizable symbol in the city.

Center of Nieuwpoort, impressive views