The term 'Wolvin' (She-Wolf) indicates an Italian influence (legend of Romulus and Remus who were saved by a she-wolf in Rome).

In the 14th century this houses was already called 'De Wolvin' (the She-Wolf). At that time it was a wooden building. It was bought by the Archers Guild. After a fire in 1690, the guilhall was rebuild in stone according to the plans by Pieter Herbosch. After the Brussels' Bombardment in 1695 only a superficial restoration was performed. In 1890 the building was restored to its original looks thanks to the town architect Jamaer.

After Steven Leroy: 'The she-wolf is a good example of the harmony between several cultures, because it is a mixture of Italian and Flemish culture. A part of the statues show important heroes from the antique history and the classic mythology. Above the entrance, there is a half-relief which brings the creation of Rome into memory: Romulus and Remus being fed by the she-wolf. On the seconf floor, you find allegoric statues: the Truth, the Falsehood, Peace and Discord. On top, under the fronton, you find medaillons showing emperors Trajanus, Tiberianus, Augustus and Ceasar. In the tympanum you see a half-relief on which Apollo pierces the snake Pyton.' The phoenix on top of the gable above the fronton rising from its ashes, symbolises immortality.



Click here for more buildings on the Town Square (Grote Markt).

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