On Monday, municipal workers cleaned the roof of Bruges’ tallest building, the Belfry on the historic market square of the West Flemish capital. This happens twice a year. It’s important because otherwise the carillonneur can't use the toilet that is fed by rainwater.
Council workers, Thomas and Jurgen, first climb the belfry’s 366 steps to the top of one of Bruges’ most visited buildings. Using a few ladders, they then make their way up to Bruges’ highest roof, 83 metres above Bruges' market square. Quite a lot of rubbish collects here, including branches, the occasional dead bird and a great deal of bird poo.
This needs to be removed, otherwise it could have far-reaching consequences for the carillonneur, explains Bruges alderman Pieter Marechal: “When the carillonneur goes to the loo, it is flushed using rainwater collected from the roof of the Belfry. So, if that isn’t maintained, this can lead to leaks, blockages or other damage – that’s why it’s important.”
Better not to be afraid of heights
“Of course there are more enjoyable things than cleaning up pigeon poo, but the breathtaking view more than makes up for that,” says Thomas.
He clearly has a head for heights as does his colleague Jurgen. “I was a roofer for years, after all. So you get used to a thing or two!”