Ghent is experimenting with ‘soft capping’ to protect the ruins of St Bavo’s Abbey and the vegetation present. A type of ‘green roof’ will be installed to prevent water-seepage. A complete restoration of the abbey ruins will follow next year. The site dates back to the 7th century and is where Ghent originated.
‘Soft Capping’ to protect Ghent's St Bavo’s Abbey ruins ahead of major restoration
Colin Clapson
Published:
Ghent is planning the restoration of the facade of the burial chapel, the walls, and parts of the cloister. Proposals are currently being drafted. While awaiting the start of the work, the city is already experimenting with “soft capping.” This is a technique that involves soil and grass mats being placed on top of old walls. It acts as a sort of “green roof” that retains moisture, preventing it from damaging the walls.
The concept is not entirely new in Flanders. Centuries-old walls are being preserved in this way elsewhere at a site in Ename (Oudenaarde – East Flanders). In Ghent, they hope the “soft cap” will serve as a home for rare plants that must make way for the restoration.
The site forms an exceptional habitat for animals and plants. For example, it is home to a millipede found nowhere else in Flanders. There are also unique spiders. Five years ago, rough river lichen was discovered here for the first time in Belgium. That is just one of the rare species of lichen that grows here. Additionally, daisies, oak ferns, and birthwort thrive here as well.
Birthplace of Ghent
The site is located at the confluence of the Rivers Scheldt and Leie. In the 7th century, a monastery named Ganda was founded here. It later became St Bavo’s Abbey. It was the site where Philip the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, married Margaret of Male.
In the 16th century, the abbey was demolished on the orders of Emperor Charles V. This was done as punishment, following fierce protests by the people of Ghent against higher taxes. Of the entire building, only the monastery refectory and a few ruins remained.
Emperor Charles had a Spanish fortress built on the site to keep the rebellious people of Ghent under control. As the ultimate humiliation, they were forced to walk through the city with a noose around their necks. To this day, Ghentians still owe their nickname “noose-bearers” to this event. Recent excavations have, in fact, uncovered traces of that Spanish Castle.
The restoration of St Bavo’s Abbey was announced earlier but has been delayed. Ghent is preparing the work in consultation with the Flemish government and an architectural firm. The work is expected to begin next year, provided all permits and grants are in place by then.