University hall
This monumental building in Naamsestraat is often the very first place where new students arrive in Leuven. After all, this is where they have to register in order to begin their studies at Leuven University. For many centuries, this hall has been the heart of the university.
The hall in the past
It was originally used by weavers for selling cloth. Shortly after the establishment of the university in 1425, the city put part of the building at the disposal of the colleges as a classroom.
The Fire of Leuven
When the German occupiers set fire to the inner city of Leuven on 25 August 1914, the university hall was almost completely destroyed except for its façade. A total of 300,000 books and manuscripts went up in flames as well. The University Library was rebuilt at Ladeuzeplein afterwards.
The hall today
The Cloth Hall currently serves as the university’s policy centre. It is still the central place of enrolment, and one of its halls is still regularly used for public PhD defences. Recently the university hall was opened to the public. Here you can visit a tiny museum, the university shop and the cosy coffee bar.
Accessibility
- The building is accessible to visitors with wheelchairs
- There is an accessible toilet (basement floor, accessible by elevator)
