A substantial part of Hugo Claus’s archives are now accessible to the public thanks to the Heritage Fund, which has acquired the archives and entrusted them to the Letterenhuis in Antwerp. The historical, literary and scientific importance of the archives is indisputable. A large part of the archives has still to be studied.

Hugo Claus was one of the greatest Flemish authors of the 20th century. He is widely known, both nationally and internationally.

The documents acquired by the Heritage Fund and entrusted to the Letterenhuis constitute the contents of the literary studio that Claus bequeathed on his death. The Foundation has been able to acquire the ensemble thanks to the cooperation of Hugo Claus’s heirs, who did not wish to see the archives broken up and dispersed, and with the enthusiastic help of the Letterenhuis in Antwerp.

The historical, literary and scientific importance of the documents, many of which have not yet been studied, is unquestionable. They illustrate the creative effort of one of the most emblematic Flemish writers through his letters, manuscripts, typescripts and proofs of poems, prose, films and theatre scripts and notebooks as well as personal documents such a his diaries, logbooks and documentation regarding literary prizes.

This bequest will provide us with greater understanding about this important author, who so marked his generation, about how he worked, his literary and artistic ideas, his influence on younger generations of writers and his importance as a key figure of Flemish literature. The Letterenhuis has undertaken to promote long-term the scientific value of this unique heritage.