Hof van Liere

The Hof van Liere, dating back to the 16th century, is an important piece of Antwerp’s architectural heritage. Located in the heart of the University of Antwerp campus, it has served many purposes over the centuries. It provided student housing, hosted eight grand halls, a university club, and a restaurant.

The building was commissioned in 1516 by Aert van Liere, then mayor of Antwerp, and built in the typical Brabant Gothic style. Originally, it stood isolated in an undeveloped area. Only in the 17th century did surrounding buildings appear, giving the Hof its current urban setting. The oldest part is the courtyard with an elegant gallery of arches and columns. In 1660, a decayed tower was demolished, altering the building’s silhouette.

Over time, the Hof van Liere changed ownership and function. In 1575, the Jesuits turned it into a secondary school with boarding facilities. Later, it also served as a military base and hospital when the Jesuit order was dissolved by the Pope. In 1929, the Jesuits reclaimed the building and housed the Saint Ignatius College of Commerce there.

In 1988, the Hof van Liere was acquired by the University of Saint Ignatius, which renovated it. After the merger of three Antwerp universities in 2007, it came under the management of the University of Antwerp. That same year, the University Club, an exclusive restaurant, was opened.