Gerechtshof Britselei

Description

The "Gerechtshof Britselei" is a courthouse located on the Britselei in #Antwerpen (Antwerpen), Belgium. Until the mid-19th century, Antwerp's court was situated at the Groenplaats near the Cathedral of Our Lady. Due to population growth and an increase in legal cases, the Groenplaats location became inadequate. In 1866, it was decided to construct a new building on the grounds of the recently demolished Spanish fortifications, which had previously hindered the city's expansion. The courthouse was built between 1871 and 1874 in an eclectic style. A design competition was held, won by Jan-Lodewijk (Louis) Baeckelmans, whose design was inspired by the Louvre in Paris. The monumental building was intended to impress and instill a sense of awe in those seeking justice.