“The castle is not only important for Ypres, but for the whole of Flanders. It is one of the oldest preserved burial residences, with exceptionally well -preserved building structures and hundreds of finds from the 12th century and later. Archaeologists call it the most important historical find ever in the city,” it sounds at ‘Castle of Ypres’.
Three options
The three options that were pushed forward in the past few weeks are still on the table: putting the castle underground and realizing the construction project on the ground, visually integrating the archaeological find and fragmenting in the new construction project via a basement floor or keeping the castle visible in the open air.
At the castle of Ypres, they hope for the latter option: “The latter option has been supported by more than 1800 people in just one week, including Petra De Sutter, honorary governor Paul Breyne and former mayor Luc Dehaene.
“The value of this unique archaeological find is more than transcends the local level. It is a rare piece of heritage that is important for the whole of Flanders. The city of Ypres does not have the means to wear this alone – and that should not be expected. The responsibility lies with the authorities that are authorized for heritage and tourism, and who have over the necessary means.”
“That is why the petition will be transferred next week to: Ben Weyts (Flemish minister competent for heritage), Melissa Depraetere (Flemish minister competent for tourism), Kelly Detavernier (West-Flemish deputy for heritage) and Jurgen Vanlerberghe (West-Flemish deputy for tourism).”