Black Tower, Medieval fortified tower in Pentagon, Brussels, Belgium
The Black Tower is a fortified tower in Brussels featuring dark stone walls that rise toward a pointed turret. Built in the early 1200s, it stands as a preserved example of medieval defensive architecture from the city's first fortification system.
The tower was built in the early 1200s as part of the city's first defensive walls. After newer city fortifications were constructed, it lost its military purpose and became a tavern before undergoing restoration in the late 1800s.
The tower appears in Marc Sleen's comic series 'The Adventures of Nero', which introduced it to generations of Belgian readers. This comic presence helped keep the building alive in local popular culture and made it more recognizable to residents.
The tower sits near the Sint-Katelijne and De Brouckere metro stations, making it accessible by public transport. It is within walking distance of the Grand Place and Saint Catherine's Church, placing it centrally within the old city area.
The tower faced demolition in 1888 during sewage construction works, but Mayor Charles Buls intervened to save it. He commissioned architect Victor Jamaer to restore the building, preserving it for future generations.
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