Until late 18th century this was the location of the residence of the Bishop of Bruges. Later it served as the Governor’s house. The main block of this building complex still remains, but the 19th century neoclassical wing facing the square was demolished in 1963 to make way for an office block designed by architect Arthur Degeyter. The building, which used to house offices of the city authorities, now stands empty, though there are plan to refurbish it drawn up by the British architect David Chipperfield.