Boortmeerbeek Lock

This lock is undoubtedly an example of ‘non-classical’ art. After all, in architecture too, people speak of works of art, which refers to constructions such as bridges, locks, etc. This lock, measuring 52 m x 7.75 m, is one of five locks on the Leuven – Mechelen canal (Zennegat, Battel, Boortmeerbeek, Kampenhout, Tildonk). The lock spans a drop of 2.70 m. The locks on the Leuvense Vaart are 18th century lock locks. In this lock system, the hinged doors that close off the brickwork form a V-angle against the direction of the water. The pressure built up in this way makes the doors self-closing. This system, designed by Fioravanti da Bologna, was mainly used on smaller locks. The pointed doors on the Leuvense Vaart are all directed towards Leuven, because the water pressure is greatest there.