|
|
For centuries now, the nickname of the Gent citizens has been 'Noose Bearers'. Until the 15th century, they were called by the much more dignified name of 'Gentlemen of Gent'.
In 1537 however, the inhabitants of the turbulent Flemish town once again revolted against the commands of their legal sovereign. This time, they refused to pay the contribution Charles V required so as to sustain the war effort against France; Their unwillingness eventually, led to a dangerous rebellion in the city . Consequently, Emperor Charles V arrived in Gent on February 14, 1540 at the head of an armed party. The punishment was extremely harsh. Gent lost all its privileges and was also imposed a severe fine. Saint Bavo's Abbey had to be pulled down and was replaced by a Spanish dungeon.Twenty-five leaders were sentenced to death and were promptly beheaded.
Moreover, a great number of local citizens , barefoot and dressed in their nightshirt, had to kneel humbly in front of Charles V to implore for his mercy. Fifty other inhabitants had to suffer an even greather humiliation. They had to walk through the city in their nightshirt and with a noose around their neck, to indicate they deserved to be hanged.
The humiliation is commemorated every year on the Friday of the Gent Festival by Gent citizens, who repeat this expiatory procession - just like in 1540 - in their nightshirt , barefoot and with a noose around their neck, but this time with stubborn Gent pride. Only native Gent citizens can participate in the procession of the Noose bearers.