Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent needs urgent repairs, including roof and oak rot. East Flanders pledged €5 million; total cost €11–15 million. Geert De Cubber urges full funding, and Moens seeks Flemish support.
As VRT News reported, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent is facing serious repair needs. They mentioned that the roof is in poor condition. The Province of East Flanders has announced it will provide €5 million in its multi-year budget for the renovation. This is the first official funding commitment for the work. Experts say the full restoration will cost between €11 million and €15 million.
“In several places, the slats have sagged or disappeared. Rain can penetrate, leading to rot or biological damage to the structure,”
says Provincial Executive Kurt Mons (N-VA) in response to a question from party colleague Elke Sleurs.
“There is damage, and oak rot is already visible. The report by Monumentenwacht and Bressers Architects is quite clear.”
“The report is clear: there are damages and oak wood fungus can be seen.”
Deputy Kurt Moens (N-VA)
What will cover the full cost of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral renovation?
Geert De Cubber of the Diocese of Ghent welcomed the funding from the Province of East Flanders for Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.
“We are pleased with this initial commitment,”
he said. He also stressed that the renovation cannot start yet because not all the money has been secured.
“We haven’t yet secured all the funds needed to begin the renovation, so we’re continuing to consult with the other partners,”
De Cubber explained. He confirmed that the cathedral’s condition is worrying.
“It would be great if the work weren’t delayed,”
he added.
The province is now looking to the Flemish government for further support.
“We cannot bear the costs of the complete renovation. We expect Flanders to take responsibility for this. Starting next year, there will be a call for large-scale renovation projects. We assume that Saint Bavo’s Cathedral will be eligible,”
Moens concludes.
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent has a history that goes back to the 7th century, when a small wooden chapel first stood on the site. In 942, a chapter of canons was created, and the building of the current Gothic cathedral began in the 14th century. Construction continued for more than 200 years, with the main structure largely finished by 1534. The cathedral is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, completed in 1432 by Hubert and Jan van Eyck. Over the centuries, the cathedral has seen several restorations, including major work in the 19th century.
