The Toreken

You’ll recognise the Toreken right away by the little turret in its corner. It’s actually the oldest building on Vrijdagmarkt. Dating back to the 15th century, it was originally the Tanners’ Guildhall, a place for selling leather goods. Over the centuries, this building has seen it all: joy, celebration, and some very dark moments. In medieval times, Vrijdagmarkt was the beating heart of Ghent’s political and social life. This is where the grand “Joyous Entries” took place. These were lavish parades held to welcome a new monarch on their first visit to the city. But not all the events here were festive. For centuries, the square was also the stage for public executions, including stake burnings and guillotine executions, until 1863. Today, 158 years later, Vrijdagmarkt is a symbol of community, especially with its traditional market held every Friday morning. Since 1943, the Toreken has been listed as a historic monument, and it now houses the Poëziecentrum—the leading center for poetry in Flanders and the Netherlands.