In the early 16th century Antwerp was a busy port and city. Its authorities wished to replace the existing small medieval town hall with a more imposing structure reflecting its great prosperity. However the threat of war prevented progress on this. The materials intended for the town hall were instead used to shore up the city defences. Then about 1560 new plans were developed in the new Renaissance style. Completed in 1565, it was soon badly burnt in 1576, but was restored three years later.