Dunkirk’s Town Hall

Dunkirk City Hall, a jewel of the Flemish Renaissance

On Place Charles Valentin, Dunkirk City Hall imposes itself by its Flemish Renaissance architecture. Built at the turn of the twentieth century, it testifies to the regional identity of the city. The Dunkirk audio-guided tour stops here to admire this centenary building, marked by the eventful history of the city.

A building constructed between 1897 and 1901

Dunkirk City Hall was built between 1897 and 1901, in a magnificent style inherited from the Flemish Renaissance, typical of the great cities of the North. Damaged during the two world wars, which hit the city hard, it was restored over time. Its imposing outline and its bell tower make it one of the great landmarks of central Dunkirk.

What to see

The richly decorated Flemish Renaissance façade and the bell tower of the city hall make it a remarkable building, on Place Charles Valentin. It illustrates Dunkirk's attachment to its Flemish identity and its history of destruction and reconstruction. It is mainly admired from the outside, as one of the finest buildings in the downtown.

Practical information

Dunkirk City Hall lies on Place Charles Valentin, in the centre of the city, reachable on foot. It is a working administrative building: the façade and the square can be freely admired, while access inside depends on ongoing business and possible openings during events. It is best to enquire with the city for any visit.

When was Dunkirk City Hall built?

Between 1897 and 1901, in a Flemish Renaissance style; damaged during the two world wars, it was then restored.

What is the style of Dunkirk City Hall?

A style inherited from the Flemish Renaissance, richly decorated, typical of the great cities of the North of France and Flanders.