The State Buildings Administration has assigned the renovation of the iconic carillon on the Kunstberg in Brussels to Clock-o-matic nv, a company from Holsbeek with expertise in monumental clocks. The project involves replacing the current mechanism with electric control and is expected to begin in spring 2025.
Heritage in the heart of Brussels
The Kunstberg, a centrally located heritage site in Brussels, is receiving renewed attention for its historical elements. Following a successful anti-graffiti campaign and the start of the renovation of the large fountain, it is now the carillon's turn. Mathieu Michel, the outgoing State Secretary of the State Buildings Administration, emphasizes the importance of this project:
"The Kunstberg is central to Brussels, both in terms of heritage and geography. I found it important that the Kunstberg would regain its integrity. From the end of winter, the contractor will carry out the necessary work so that the figures on the clock can resume their journey through the hours, typical of our northern carillons."
The historic carillon of the Kunstberg
The carillon is located on the back façade of the arch of the Dynastiepaleis, a building originally built for Expo 58 and served as a reception venue for official ceremonies. In 1965, the carillon was added, equipped with a large golden wall clock in the form of a twelve-pointed star with 24 bells. One of the bells strikes every hour thanks to a bronze jacquemart, a figure symbolizing the Brussels citizenry.
The carillon also houses small niches with figures from Brussels history and folklore. These figures move to the rhythm of the chime, which plays two folk melodies: one Flemish and one Walloon.
From hydraulic to electric
The current hydraulic mechanism, which drives the movement of the figures, is outdated and regularly malfunctions. Maintenance is becoming increasingly difficult due to the lack of spare parts and problems caused by extreme weather conditions, such as oil freezing and burst pipes.
The State Buildings Administration has therefore decided to completely replace the hydraulic system with electric control. This new system will not only be more sustainable and environmentally friendly, but also cheaper to maintain.
Planning and investment
The renovation work will begin in spring 2025, given the sensitivity of the hydraulic system to cold temperatures and the time needed to order materials. The work is expected to take approximately one month and will be carried out at an estimated cost of €101,000.
With this renovation, not only is an important step being taken in the preservation of this Brussels heritage, but the Kunstberg is also receiving a new impetus as a historical and cultural icon. Thanks to the modernization, the carillon can once again fulfill its unique role for many years to come in the daily life of the capital.
