A temporary home for the busts from the Aula

The Boekentoren is not the only site at UGent to undergo a thorough makeover, campus Aula, another iconic landmark in Ghent, is also being renovated. The use of a Flemish Heritage Grant awarded in 2020 will ensure the restoration of the neoclassical Aula and the adjoining corner house ‘Hof van der Vere’, after which the Aula will be given a public purpose by being transformed into a prestigious conference and events centre in the heart of the city.

The neoclassical building is almost 200 years old, and its monumental staircase, among others, is richly decorated with historical murals. The most famous sight of the auditorium is of course the row of columns on Volderstraat. Inside, the promotion hall is particularly striking. This is a rotunda, with a magnificent dome resting on 28 Corinthian columns. The hall is designed as a stage with an amphitheatre. The adjacent mansion is protected for its historical and artistic value.

Due to the renovation, the collection of busts from the Aula is in need of a new home. The busts are mostly historical figures who were important for Ghent and for Ghent University. They will now find a home in the Boekentoren, where the the busts and pedestals will be well taken care of. Some of the busts are made of natural stone, others of plaster and some are made of bronze. The library will provide the correct conditions to properly preserve the various materials of the busts.

Moving sculptures naturally involves a few things. The sculptures were brought from the Aula to the Boekentoren by special transport. A firm specialising in art transport carefully packed the busts. This is done properly because they are delicate objects. Each object is unique and sometimes requires creative solutions, for example because of its weight.