Koninklijke Nederlandse Schouwburg (Royal Dutch Theater), Ghent

The Royal Dutch Theater (Koninklijke Nederlandse Schouwburg) is a historic architectural gem located on the north side of Sint-Baafsplein Square in Ghent, nestled between Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the Belfry Tower. This remarkable building, designed by architect Edmond De Vigne, showcases an eclectic style with a strong emphasis on neo-Renaissance elements.

Though the façade of the theater bears the inscription “ANNO 1897,” the building was officially inaugurated in 1899. Its façade is composed of three stories with five bays, with the central three bays prominently accentuated. On the second and third stories, four statues of men dressed in 17th-century attire, crafted by sculptor Louis Mast, represent the four chambers of rhetoric in Ghent: De Fontaine, Sint-Barbara, Sint-Agnete, and Maria ter Ere.

A monumental gable crowns the central part of the façade, featuring a stunning mosaic within a round-arched tympanum, created by Constant Montald. This mosaic, measuring nine meters wide and four meters high, consists of 70,000 ceramic stones in 500 different colors and depicts a mythological scene of the god Apollo in his sun chariot, accompanied by nine muses, each identifiable by their distinct attributes.

At the top of the building stands a bronze statue of Lady Harmonia, the Genius of Music, holding a lyre. This statue, designed by Ghent sculptor Aloys Buyens, majestically overlooks the square, adding a final touch of elegance to the structure.

The Royal Dutch Theater has been a protected monument since 1986. It underwent a comprehensive renovation from 1987 to 1993, during which it was updated to meet modern theater technology standards and fire safety requirements. Although visitors can only enter the theater during performances, the foyer on the first floor is open to all. Tickets can be purchased in the entrance hall on the ground floor, and those attending performances are encouraged to visit the terrace, which offers lovely views of Sint-Baafsplein.