Mariapark

Mariapark in Lommel-Werkplaatsen is a historic pilgrimage park and one of the most distinctive religious sites in Belgium's Northern Limburg region. Spread across more than 14,000 square meters, it combines walking paths and green spaces with a dense cluster of religious structures built in artistic concrete — a craft that flourished in this part of Belgium during the first half of the 20th century.

How did the park begin?

The story starts in August 1925, when Capuchin friars settled in Lommel-Werkplaatsen and built a monastery and a school on the site. Just two years later, in 1927, they added a grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes on land next to the parish church. The grotto, along with a large statue of the Sacred Heart standing beside it, was the work of Michiel Geysels, a concrete artist from Westmeerbeek whose distinctive style still defines much of the park's atmosphere today.

Growth through the 1930s and 1940s

The park expanded steadily over the following decades. In 1933 a circle of chapels honoring the Seven Sorrows of Mary was added — atmospheric small chapels with bas-reliefs depicting scenes of Mary's suffering, still among the most recognizable parts of the complex. Five years later, in 1938, an adjoining strip of heathland was purchased to make way for a Way of the Cross. The project culminated in a monumental Calvary hill, formally inaugurated in 1941. The Stations of the Cross along the way feature sculptures by the artist Dupon of Bruges.

What else is in Mariapark?

Over time the complex grew to include a nativity scene, a chapel dedicated to Saint Joseph, and a statue of Saint Francis of Assisi. In 1981, on the initiative of local associations, a chapel honoring Saint Lidwina — patron saint of the sick and disabled — was added. This mix of structures gives a walk through the park the feel of moving through successive layers of Marian and Passion devotion that shaped the region's religious life in the early 20th century.

Why is Mariapark a protected monument?

Since 2005, Mariapark has been protected by the Flemish government as a heritage monument, recognized for its historical, artistic, folkloric, and socio-cultural value. The designation acknowledges both the unique concrete craftsmanship on display and the ongoing role the site plays in the local community.

Is the park still used for pilgrimage today?

Yes. Every year on May 1st, a major pilgrimage takes place at the Lourdes grotto, and smaller gatherings and devotions are held from May through October. Mariapark is therefore not just a historic site but an active center of Marian devotion.

Ongoing restoration

Since June 2024, Mariapark has been undergoing a comprehensive restoration carried out in four phases. The first phase, which included restoring the Lourdes grotto and installing new lighting, has already been completed, while work on the second phase continues. The renewed sections of the park were showcased to the public during events such as Open Monumentendag (Open Monuments Day).

Frequently asked questions

Where is Mariapark located? In Lommel-Werkplaatsen, part of the municipality of Lommel, in the province of Limburg, Belgium.

Who built the park? Capuchin friars who settled in Lommel-Werkplaatsen in 1925, working with concrete artist Michiel Geysels and sculptor Dupon of Bruges.

Is entry to the park free? The park functions as both a pilgrimage site and a public green space, and it is freely accessible to visitors.

What should visitors see first? The Our Lady of Lourdes grotto, the circle of chapels of the Seven Sorrows, and the Way of the Cross leading up to the Calvary hill.