Early reconstruction study of medieval Aalst as it may have appeared in 1128

Aalst in 1128 – Historical Reconstruction

Commissioned by the City of Aalst, I created two historical reconstruction paintings showing how the city may have looked in 1128, during the conflict surrounding Iwein of Aalst.

The project began with a digital 3D reconstruction of medieval Aalst, based on historical and archaeological research. This model provided the spatial foundation for the final illustrations.

Client City of Aalst
Location Aalst, Belgium
Period 1128 – 12th century
Project type Historical and archaeological reconstruction
Collaboration Carolien De Neef, Jan Moens and Koen De Groote
Deliverable Two reconstruction paintings and heritage panels

Reconstructing medieval Aalst

The reconstructions were developed from historical and archaeological research, with contributions from Carolien De Neef and archaeologists Jan Moens and Koen De Groote. Their work helped establish the medieval city walls, urban structure, and historical context of Aalst.

The 3D model made it possible to explore the city spatially before moving into the illustration phase. From there, compositions were developed through sketches and refined during several feedback rounds before the final paintings were completed.

Refined visual study for the reconstruction of Aalst in 1128
Sketch developed during the illustration process for medieval Aalst
Illustration development showing the historical setting for a scene in Aalst
Presentation of the Iwein of Aalst heritage panels in the city

Research, review and refinement

Projects like this are developed in close collaboration with historians, archaeologists, heritage specialists, and commissioning partners.

Working step by step from spatial reconstruction to sketches and final artwork creates several opportunities for review and correction. This helps keep the visual interpretation aligned with the available evidence while also meeting the communication goals of the project.

Heritage interpretation panel featuring the reconstruction of medieval Aalst

Iwein of Aalst and the events of 1128

The project forms part of a broader heritage initiative centred on Iwein of Aalst, an important 12th-century figure who became involved in the political conflict surrounding the County of Flanders.

The events culminated in the Battle of Hertshage in 1128. The reconstructions help place this story within the medieval city itself, allowing visitors to connect the historical narrative with the streets and public spaces of present-day Aalst.

Heritage panel installed in Aalst featuring the historical reconstruction artwork
Final historical reconstruction showing an overview of medieval Aalst in 1128
Final historical illustration depicting a scene in medieval Aalst in 1128
Installed heritage panel presenting the historical reconstruction of Aalst

From reconstruction to public heritage

The finished artworks were incorporated into permanent heritage panels installed in the public space around Saint Martin’s Church in Aalst. The illustrations allow the historical landscape of the city to be experienced in the same environment where that history took place.