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Heritage Day - Moving with the past!

The programme

On 27 April, the Boekentoren is organising a day of activities around sport showcasing the special collection of the Higher Institute of Physical Education's and the Book Tower's heritage collection

  • Discover our heritage : Dive into Boekentoren's sports heritage collection.
  • Documentary screening: Watch an intriguing film about the collection of the Higher Institute of Physical Education.
  • Live demonstration: Attend Prof. De Clercq's physical education demonstration (11:00 AM & 1:30 PM).
  • Panoramic views: Enjoy the breathtaking view from the Boekentoren's Belvedere.
  • Crafts workshop: Create your own zoetrope animation.
  • Sports in the study area: For one day you can enjoy sport in the study area.

A unique opportunity to visit the Book Tower and learn more about the history of sport and the value of heritage.

Practical information

  • Heritage Day will take place on Sunday 27 April.
  • The Boekentoren will be open between 10am and 5pm, entry via Rozier 9, 9000 Ghent.
  • Collection presentation, documentary and the Belvedere can be visited continuously.
  • Prof De Clercq's demonstration will be held at 11am and 2pm. No reservation required.
  • Persons with physical disabilities have access via the entry Sint-Hubertusstraat 8, 9000 Ghent. Call 092 64 94 55 to open the door.

Exposition universelle & internationale de Gand - AFF.F.000039

Exhibition of the collections

For Heritage Day, the Boekentoren invites you to a day full of activities around the special collection of the Higher Institute for Physical Education (HILO) and its own heritage collection. Through the collection of HILO, dating from 1960 to 1990, we get an insight into the scientific study of sport in Ghent. Watch the short documentary to learn more about the history of HILO.

Furthermore, delve into the Boekentoren's own heritage collection, featuring stunning sports posters, historical Ghent sports club brochures, early 20th-century exercise manuals, and commemorative medals. Experience the evolution of sport through these unique artifacts.

HILO in action: live demonstration about the science of movement

Immerse yourself in the world of the Higher Institute of Physical Education (HILO) with our special demonstration. Join Prof. De Clercq, a renowned expert in movement analysis, as he reveals how the human body moves, the underlying principles behind those movements, and how performance can be optimized. Discover how he guided elite athletes to achieve their peak potential.
During the demonstration, you'll delve into the science of movement, explore the techniques of film-based motion capture, and experience the unique HILO collection, including original 16mm films.
The demonstration will take place at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, lasting approximately 30 minutes. No reservation is required.

Atelier animated image (craft workshop)

On top of an exhibition and demonstration, the Boekentoren invites young and old to a creative outmet! In the HILO-theses, you will find plenty of images of jumps, dives and other movements. Learn how to turn still images into moving images with a zoetrope. Use the prints from HILO's theses or create your own animation. Will you bring the prints back to life?

A fun activity for the whole family!

Get moving!

Feeling inspired? Need a boost? For one day only, the Study area transforms into a hub of fun sports activities for everyone!

Some images from Heritage Day 2024.