Broeltorens, Kortrijk

The Broel Towers (in Dutch: Broeltorens) are a classified monument and a landmark in the Belgian city of Kortrijk. The towers are known as one of the most important symbols of the city. Although they look identical, the towers were not built at the same time. The Southern tower, also known as the Speyetoren, was built in 1385 to control the traffic on the river Lys. This tower was part of the fortified fence of the first medieval castle of the Counts of Flanders. The Speyentoren was also part of the 12th century rampart, destroyed by Louis XIV in the 17th century. The Northern tower, known as the Ingelborchtoren was built in 1415 and was used as an armory.