The Leuven City Archives have completed the digitalisation of the medieval schepenbank registers, a significant step for historical research in Belgium. These documents, which record the decisions of Leuven’s schepenen from the mid-14th to the late 18th century, offer a rare glimpse into medieval life in the city.
- Leuven archive completes medieval record digitization
- Registers document decisions of city officials
- Covers period from 14th to 18th century
- Provides insights into medieval Leuven life
- Preserves historical municipal governance details
On 2025-07-26 15:23:00, the archives announced the project’s completion, highlighting the importance of making these valuable records accessible online. How did these registers influence local governance back then? And what can modern Belgians learn from this rich historical source?
By unlocking these centuries-old documents, the Leuven City Archives provide historians, students, and the public with a unique window into the past, inviting deeper exploration of Leuven’s medieval society and legal traditions.
Why is this digitalisation important for Belgium today? It preserves fragile historical records and democratizes access to primary sources once limited to on-site visits. This project also raises questions about how digital archives can enhance public engagement with history:
- Preserves delicate medieval documents for future generations
- Enables online access for researchers across Belgium and beyond
- Supports local identity by showcasing Leuven’s historical governance
Looking ahead, the Leuven City Archives plan to expand digital access to more historical collections. Belgians are invited to explore these records and deepen their connection to the country’s rich medieval past.
