The Town Hall, today the beating heart of Antwerp politics, was built in the 16th century. Architect Cornelis Floris de Vriendt chose a unique combination of a traditional style with innovative elements from the Italian Renaissance. In 1936, the building was officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  After a thorough restoration between 2018 and 2022, the building now shines like never before, both inside and out. The exterior facade has been restored in keeping with the colour palette of a 1565 engraving. Admire the flags of the 27 countries that belong to the European Union, as well as the flags of all the countries that have their consulates in Antwerp.