Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

During the First World War, the ancient centre of Bethune was completely destroyed by bombardments, including much of the private heritage. Reconstruction, largely financed by the State, is organized around two axes: the construction of workers' towns on the outskirts by mining companies (Noeux and Nord), and the reconstruction of private homes by nine local cooperatives. The municipal council creates an aesthetic commission to validate the plans of architects, especially for the buildings of the Grand'Place, in order to preserve urban harmony and the historic park.

This building, located in 24 Place du Beffroi, is built according to the plans of architect Jacques Alleman, known for his regionalist approach combining Flemish influences and classicism. Designed to fit into the space of the square, it features a gable on tapered street, typical of local architecture, with a ground floor dedicated to a store and floors reserved for housing. Its style reflects the desire to reconcile post-war modernity and traditional heritage, in a context of massive reconstruction.

The building is subject to partial protection, with the inclusion of its facades and roofs in the inventory of Historic Monuments by order of 20 December 2001 (cadastral reference BE 478). This recognition underlines its role in the memory of the reconstruction of Bethune, as well as the architectural quality of its integration into the historical urban fabric. The exact location, although documented (24 Grand'Place), is considered to be of poor accuracy (level 5/10) in the geographic databases.

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