Verdoezelde

Verdoezelde is a type of Flemish soap barn or stalletje from the region of Oost-Vlaanderen in Belgium. These barns were built primarily as locations for soap making, known as zevenhuis or seven houses. The name "verdoezelde" essentially means "desalted" or "dried out" in Dutch, likely referring to the desalination process of seawater.

During the Middle Ages, seawater was boiled down to make salt, which was then used for soap making. Soap was a crucial product for trade and everyday life during this period, particularly for the sale of wool. The building of specific structures such as barns dedicated to soap production was essential for this industry to thrive.

However, over time, both sailors and traders began to take alternative routes, lessening demand for the sea salt business. As a result, these specific structures that had been dedicated to soap production became less relevant, and the name "verdoezelde" started to be associated with these once transcendental structures.

Nowadays, there are approximately 19 remaining verdoezelde stalletjes. Adding credence to their cultural significance, these buildings have been given heritage status due to their extensive historical importance. People visit these sites to learn about the long history of a bygone industry that once greatly influenced both business and society.