Vleeshal

Vleeshal is a gallery for contemporary art on the Markt in Middelburg, the capital of the province of Zeeland. As the name says, the building was once the town's meat hall, where butchers sold their wares under a roof owned by the town. It stands beside the Stadhuis, the Gothic town hall, and together the two make up one of the most impressive ensembles of civic architecture in the Netherlands. The meat hall dates from the Middle Ages, and its steep roof and decorative gables fit the late-Gothic style of the neighbouring town hall.

Middelburg’s history is that of an important trading port for centuries, and its wealth came from the sea and from links with the Dutch East India Company. The town was heavily damaged by German bombing in May 1940, and a great deal of the centre was burnt. Many buildings, including the town hall complex, were restored in the years after, and what stands on the Markt today is largely a careful rebuilding on the old foundations.

Today Vleeshal is a place where new art is shown in a very old setting. The gallery stages exhibitions by Dutch and international artists, focusing on installations, video, painting and other recent work. The high hall and thick walls give shows a distinct character, and artists often respond to the space itself. Programmes change several times a year, so a second visit rarely shows the same thing. Staff and printed information are available to explain the works, which helps visitors who are new to contemporary art.

Because the gallery is on the central square, it fits into an easy walk around the town. The Markt itself hosts a market on certain days, and the surrounding streets have shops, cafes and historic houses. Nearby, the abbey complex with its tall tower, known as Lange Jan, dominates the skyline and holds the Zeeuws Museum. The Kuiperspoort, Kloveniersdoelen and the old gates give more reasons to linger.

The gallery suits art lovers, architecture fans and anyone who enjoys seeing old buildings put to new uses. Opening days and hours vary with the exhibition schedule, so check before going. It takes an hour at most, and it pairs well with the town hall, the abbey and a stroll along the canals.