Constructing the Boekentoren

During the interwar period, a new library building appeared on the top of Blandijnberg; a building that would outshine all other aspects of library life.

While war raged, the library moved from Ottogracht to Blandijn, from a dilapidated abbey complex to an as yet unfinished glass and concrete tower. The history, design and construction of the Boekentoren would drag on for more than twenty years; its architect Henry van de Velde described the whole undertaking as ‘absolute agony’ and one that brought his firm ‘to the brink of ruin'. The relocation was only completed in 1960.

On 15 October 1942 the Boekentoren opened its doors for the very first time. The still unfinished university library would become the 'panorama of Ghent' and the fourth tower of the city. The Boekentoren has been a protected monument since 1 July 1992. Its modernist architecture and evocative belvedere, which crowns the tower, have lent the building an iconic status over the past decades.

Read the story of the Boekentoren in Towers of Books or go on a virtual tour via the tour website.

The Boekentoren restored to its former glory

The restoration project that started in 2007 will run until 2025. The architects and restorers working on this are:

• Robbrecht and Daem architects
• BARO
• SumProject
• Barbara Van der Wee architects

Antwerp property developer André Singer bought Henry van de Velde's Boekentoren archive in 2002. His indignation about the state of the building at the time, and the knowledge, resources and energy he poured into the project played a crucial role in its success.

Following restoration, the library services including the Study Area and Reading Room will be available from the summer of 2021. The east wing comprising office spaces will be completed in 2025.