In September 2004, ’s-Hertogenbosch was proclaimed European/World Walled Town 2005. This title was awarded to ’s-Hertogenbosch by the Walled Towns Friendship Circle, the international organisation of walled towns. As a result, a number of events are going to be organised in 2005 against the backdrop of the fortifications. The award is the result of all the efforts relating to the restoration of the unique fortified town of ’s-Hertogenbosch. It is a process in which cultural history and ecology, spatial planning and town centre economy go hand in hand. All the different activities are being carried out on the basis of close cooperation between the town and organisations and companies. The primeval element of fire plays a leading role in all the events. On 16 December 2005, the walled town will be literally set ablaze. During this closing ceremony, the organisation intends to challenge all the residents of ’s-Hertogenbosch to help form a continuous chain of torches on the Citadel. In this way, the end of the fortifications year will be marked by the creation of the Christmas Star in Europe 2005!