The historic Gemeentehuis van Waalwijk, or the former Town Hall of Waalwijk, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and rich history of this charming Dutch town. Built between 1929 and 1932, this striking building was designed by the renowned architect Alexander Jacobus Kropholler. It is not just a building but a piece of art that encapsulates the essence of Waalwijk's cultural and industrial heritage.
The Gemeentehuis van Waalwijk is a masterpiece of historiserend (historicizing) architecture, a style that Kropholler was particularly known for. The building is constructed from large, hand-formed warm red bricks with light grey joints. It measures 24 meters in length, 18 meters in width, and 35 meters in height, with a roof covered in Norwegian slate. The stepped gable, a hallmark of Dutch architecture, adds a majestic touch to the building's façade.
One of the most striking features of the town hall is the grand staircase at the front, flanked by statues of a cow and an ox, sculpted by Lambertus Zijl. These sculptures symbolize the leather and shoe industry that brought prosperity to Waalwijk in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Above the entrance, the coat of arms of Waalwijk is prominently displayed, measuring an impressive 3.5 by 3.5 meters. A loggia with a clock on a tile tableau adds to the building's charm, making it a focal point in the town's landscape.
The exterior of the Gemeentehuis van Waalwijk is a feast for the eyes. The building is adorned with numerous artistic elements, including two lions holding the coats of arms of the Netherlands and the province of North Brabant. These symbols of strength and heritage are complemented by a spire and three heavy, red lead-colored anchors. The windows are fitted with neo-antique glass, allowing light to filter in while preserving privacy. The doors, made of Javanese teak wood, are finished with hand-forged hinges, door handles, and footplates, showcasing Kropholler's exceptional craftsmanship.
In front of the building stands a brick street lamp with a granite base, designed by Kropholler himself. This lamp is a replica of the Burgemeester Wendelaarlantaarn, unveiled in Alkmaar in 1932, adding a touch of historical continuity to the town hall's surroundings.
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Stepping inside the Gemeentehuis van Waalwijk is like entering a different era. The harmonious design of Kropholler is evident in every corner of the interior. The walls of the hall, staircase, and connecting rooms and corridors are crafted from various colorful stone types, combined with matching glazed wainscoting. Sandstone columns, brick arches with keystones, and a coffered ceiling create a lively and elegant atmosphere.
The interior is rich in exclusive wood types used in the ceiling, doors, and furniture. Artistic details are abundant, with numerous artworks by notable artists adorning the space. Lambertus Zijl, known for his work on the Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam, created a sandstone relief of Queen Wilhelmina, as well as the cow and ox sculptures and various bird and animal figures. Cephas Stauthamer contributed a mosaic named 'Handel,' referencing the Chamber of Commerce that once resided within the building.
Felix Timmermans designed a tile tableau depicting St. Crispinus and St. Crispinianus, the patron saints of shoemakers and tanners. Julie Kropholler, the architect's sister, created stained glass windows decorated with the twelve zodiac signs and images of the planets Venus and Mars, casting beautiful light into the building. The Flemish artist Veerle Dupont crafted a tapestry for the wedding hall, while Eduard Speyart van Woerden made a bronze plaque of Queen Beatrix.
The local artist Theo van Delft also left his mark on the town hall. His works include a bronze bust of Queen Juliana, a sandstone statue of Duke John II of Brabant, and a sandstone relief of the old town hall, which was destroyed by fire in 1824. Van Delft also painted a mural in the wedding hall with biblical motifs, incorporating recognizable landmarks from Waalwijk, such as the old church tower of Baardwijk.
The Gemeentehuis van Waalwijk is more than just a historic building; it is a living monument that continues to serve the community. Although it ceased to function as the town hall in 2010, when the municipal administrators and officials moved to a new city hall on the Winterdijk, the building has found a new societal role as the 'Huis van Waalwijk.' This transformation ensures that the town hall remains a vibrant part of Waalwijk's cultural and social fabric.
In conclusion, the Gemeentehuis van Waalwijk is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, and art. Its stunning design, rich history, and vibrant artistic heritage make it a true gem in the heart of Waalwijk. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, this iconic building will captivate and inspire you.
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