Sacred Monuments in Belgium

Sint-Jozefskerk

Zonhoven

Sint-Jozefskerk is the parish church of Halveweg, a hamlet within the Belgian municipality of Zonhoven in the province of Limburg. The building belongs to the Diocese of Hasselt and is dedicated to Saint Joseph. It is the youngest church on Zonhoven's territory — the current structure dates only from the early 1970s, built on the site of an earlier church that burned down. What is the history of this church? The first church for the newly established Halveweg parish was designed by architect Sylvain Strauven of Tessenderlo. Construction was completed in 1938 by contractor Vandijck of Houthalen, and the building seated around 250 to 300 worshippers. It did not survive long: on 10 July 1968, the church was destroyed by fire. A new church was built on the same site within a few years. It was consecrated on 10 July 1971 by Paul Schruers, then auxiliary bishop and later bishop of Hasselt. The consecration date deliberately matched the anniversary of the earlier fire. Who designed the current building? The new church was designed by architect Paul Stevens of Hasselt, with construction carried out by contractor Clauwers of Kaulille. The build cost 6.3 million Belgian francs at the time. The result is a modern hall-church with a flat roof, built entirely of yellow brick, which gives the structure its distinctive, uniform appearance. What can visitors see inside? The church holds approximately 400 people. The main worship hall has a wood-paneled ceiling, and two bronze relief sculptures depicting Saint Joseph and Mary flank the altar. Besides the main hall, the building also contains a meeting room with a kitchen, a winter chapel, and an entrance hall — a layout typical of postwar parish churches designed for multi-purpose use by the local community. The Stations of the Cross inside the church were illustrated in 1978 by first-grade schoolchildren, an unusual detail that gives the interior a personal, local character. Where does the pipe organ come from? The pipe organ was installed in the church in 2007, though the instrument itself has a much older history. It was built in 1961 by the firm Fonteyn en Gaal for a Reformed church in Bussum, the Netherlands. After decades of service there, the organ was relocated to Zonhoven, where it remains in use today. What about the bells? The church's three bells were cast by the Petit & Fritsen bell foundry, a firm with a long tradition of church bell casting in the Netherlands. The bells have been part of the church's furnishings since it was built. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is Sint-Jozefskerk located? The church stands in the hamlet of Halveweg, within the municipality of Zonhoven in the Belgian province of Limburg, at coordinates 50.994164, 5.340222. Is this the oldest church in Zonhoven? No — Sint-Jozefskerk is actually the youngest church in the municipality, built between 1968 and 1971 after the earlier 1938 church burned down. How many people can the church hold? The building has a capacity of around 400 worshippers. Are regular services still held there? According to available information, the church currently does not hold regular weekend services, although funeral services are still possible.

Église Saint-Christophe

Liège

Église Saint-Christophe is a Gothic parish church in Liège, Belgium, and one of the oldest surviving beguinage churches in the former Low Countries. It stands outside the old city enclosure, on the western side of town near the former Avroy bridge. Where did this church come from? The first religious building on this site was constructed between 1179 and 1183, before any formal community of beguines — lay religious women living in shared communities — had even taken shape here; the first written mentions of such a community appear only in the first half of the 13th century. In 1241, the Archbishop of Cologne, Konrad von Hochstaden, issued a charter for these women, who by then numbered around 1,500, noting that a church was already under construction. The church as it stands today was built around 1240. Why is this place significant? Saint-Christophe is considered the oldest preserved beguinage church in the former Principality of Liège and, as far as is known, in Europe as a whole. Liège is regarded as one of the cradles of the beguine movement: the city once had more than twenty smaller beguine "convents" scattered across its parish structure, alongside a single fully organized beguinage "à cour" built around its own dedicated church. That church is Saint-Christophe. What does the architecture look like? The building was raised in coarse coal-bearing sandstone and limestone. Its Gothic style is deliberately simple, in keeping with the beguines' spirit of modesty: wooden vaults, a flat chevet (choir end), windows without tracery, and no sculptural decoration at all. It is a restrained, functional style of architecture, far removed from the grand cathedrals of the same era. How has the church changed over time? In the 18th century the church underwent significant alterations: the floor level was raised, a new vault was installed, and stuccoed decoration was added, reflecting the tastes of that period. The beguine community attached to the church was suppressed in 1797, amid the revolutionary upheavals that swept the former Low Countries. Later, between 1885 and 1892, architect Auguste Van Assche led a thorough restoration of the building, recovering the legibility of its historic form. What is the church's status today? The church was listed as a protected heritage monument on 24 July 1936, confirming its standing as one of the region of Wallonia's most valuable religious landmarks. It remains an active place of worship: alongside its regular parishioners, it also hosts Liège's African community, bringing together worshippers from several African countries, making it a living, multicultural congregation. Frequently asked questions Who is the church dedicated to? The church is dedicated to Saint Christopher. Is it really the oldest beguinage church in Europe? As far as is known, yes — Saint-Christophe is considered the oldest surviving beguinage church in the former Principality of Liège and, by extension, in Europe. When was the current building constructed? The present church was built around 1240, though a religious building had already stood on the site since 1179–1183. Has the church been rebuilt or restored? Yes. In the 18th century its floor was raised and a new stuccoed vault added, and between 1885 and 1892 it underwent a thorough restoration led by architect Auguste Van Assche.

Sint-Petruskerk

Wezembeek

Sint-Petruskerk is the parish church of Wezembeek, part of the Belgian municipality of Wezembeek-Oppem in the province of Flemish Brabant, standing at Sint-Pietersplein. Built of sandstone, the church is known today under the patronage of Saint Peter, though it was originally dedicated to Saint Peter in Chains — a dedication under which the building is already mentioned in records from 1129, making it one of the older places of worship in the region. In the Middle Ages, ecclesiastical rights over the parish passed to the cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula in Brussels, one of the most important church institutions of the southern Low Countries at the time. How did the building evolve over the centuries? The church's present appearance is the result of successive enlargements and renovations of an original single-nave Romanesque building. The tower presumably retains a Romanesque core, making it the oldest surviving element of the structure. The Gothic choir was likely added in the 15th or 16th century, significantly altering the character of the eastern part of the church and introducing features typical of Gothic architecture — slenderer windows and a more vertical composition compared to the plainer Romanesque body of the nave. What destruction and rebuilding did the church go through? The church's history includes several serious crises. In 1583 it was set on fire twice by mutinying soldiers under the command of Alexander Farnese, the Italian commander serving the Spanish crown during the wars in the Low Countries. The choir could be brought back into use relatively quickly, but the nave was destroyed and required substantial rebuilding. The roof was repaired in 1602, and a fuller restoration campaign followed between 1604 and 1610. The church suffered further damage during the Franco-Dutch War (1672–1679), with repairs completed by 1685. What changed in the 18th century? In 1782 the church was enlarged with two side aisles, giving both the tower and the main nave a sober, Classicist appearance. This later, larger renovation was layered on top of the earlier architectural phases — the Romanesque tower and the Gothic choir — producing a building that combines several styles from different eras, a pattern typical of rural parish churches in the Brabant region, repeatedly rebuilt and expanded over the centuries as congregations grew. Where is the church located? Sint-Petruskerk stands at the heart of Wezembeek, on Sint-Pietersplein, within the municipality of Wezembeek-Oppem east of Brussels, in the province of Flemish Brabant. The square around the church forms the historic core of the town. Frequently asked questions How old is this church? The church dedicated to Saint Peter in Chains is first documented in 1129, though the current structure is the result of centuries of rebuilding. What was destroyed in the 1583 fires? Mutinying soldiers under Alexander Farnese set the church alight twice; the nave suffered serious damage, while the choir was restored to use more quickly. When were the side aisles added? In 1782, giving the church its current Classicist look. What architectural style does the church represent? It combines Romanesque (the tower), Gothic (the choir) and Classicist (the 18th-century side aisles) elements — the result of several hundred years of successive rebuilding.

Sint-Gertrudiskerk (Machelen)

Sint-Gertrudiskerk is the parish church of Machelen, a municipality in Flemish Brabant right on the northern edge of Brussels, close to Zaventem airport. Standing on Kerklaan, its cruciform neo-Gothic silhouette has been the visual anchor of the small town center for well over a century. How old is this church really? The story likely starts far earlier than the current building. A manor chapel is thought to have existed here as early as the 9th century, tied to land held by the Abbey of Nivelles. That link is plausible rather than documented, but the first solid record of Machelen as an independent parish dates to 1226 — meaning the site has served as the town's religious center for roughly 800 years, even though the physical church itself has been rebuilt more than once. Why does the building look the way it does? Around 1489, the medieval church was destroyed by fire during an act of arson. Reconstruction began in 1500, but the project ran out of money around 1550, by which point only the choir and transept had been finished. That surviving fragment — a late-Gothic choir with side chapels and sacristies — is the oldest part standing today, dating to the first half of the 16th century. The rest of the church had to wait more than three centuries: around 1900, it was substantially enlarged in neo-Gothic style, adding the nave and giving the building its current, much larger cross-shaped footprint. Walk from the entrance toward the altar and the shift is legible in the stone itself — a 19th/20th-century nave leading into a noticeably older 16th-century choir. What should visitors notice? The church is a Gothic building laid out in the classic cross plan, with a clearly defined transept and tower. Since 1937 it has held protected monument status, which recognizes both the surviving late-Gothic core and the later neo-Gothic additions as part of the region's built heritage. That protection is also why the older choir section has been preserved carefully rather than replaced during subsequent renovations. The dedication to Saint Gertrude of Nivelles is not accidental — it echoes the parish's presumed medieval ties to the Abbey of Nivelles, of which Gertrude was the founding abbess. The church remains an active place of worship for the Machelen-Diegem parish community rather than a purely historical monument, so visitors will typically find it functioning as a working church alongside its architectural interest. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is the church located? On Kerklaan in the center of Machelen, Flemish Brabant, immediately adjacent to Brussels and close to Brussels Airport in Zaventem. Which part of the church is oldest? The late-Gothic choir and transept, together with their adjoining chapels and sacristies, built in the first half of the 16th century. Why does the church mix architectural styles? Because it was built in two widely separated phases: a 16th-century choir completed after fire destroyed the earlier medieval church, and a much larger neo-Gothic nave added around 1900. Is the building legally protected? Yes, it has been listed as a protected monument since 1937.

Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart

Etterbeek

The Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Etterbeek is a Roman Catholic parish church standing on Rue de Tervaete, in a commune bordering central Brussels. Built in Neo-Romanesque style to the design of architect Edmond Serneels (1875–1934), the building owes its existence to a grassroots initiative of local residents. How did the parish come to be? On 10 February 1925, residents of the neighbourhood signed a petition calling for a new parish to be established in their area. Construction was decided that same year, and the works were carried out in two phases under Serneels's direction. The parish itself was formally created in 1926 — the same year a scout unit was founded alongside the church, underscoring how closely the building was tied to community life from the outset. What was the construction process like? Building work ran from 1925 to 1928 (some sources place the main construction phase specifically in 1926–1928). During the second phase, a shortage of funds forced planners to shorten the building compared with the original design, reducing its intended length. Despite this compromise, the finished church offers a spacious interior seating 800 people. When was the church completed and consecrated? The church was inaugurated in 1928 and formally consecrated the following year, in 1929. This gap between opening and consecration was common for large parish projects of the era: the building began serving worshippers before all liturgical formalities were completed. What does the interior look like? The interior decoration was carried out mainly by artists associated with the "La Croix Latine" group, gathered around the Benedictine monk Dom Martin and the painter Anto Carte. Their work includes the church's stained-glass windows, still regarded as one of the building's most distinctive features today. The parish belongs to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels. Does the church host cultural events? Yes — beyond its liturgical role, the space is also used for musical performances. It has hosted, among others, a performance of Johann Sebastian Bach's Mass in B minor by the Chorale royale protestante de Bruxelles, showing that the church serves the Etterbeek community as a cultural venue as well as a place of worship. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is the church located? On Rue de Tervaete in the municipality of Etterbeek, part of the Brussels-Capital Region. Who designed the building? Architect Edmond Serneels, working in the Neo-Romanesque style. How many people can the interior hold? The church seats around 800 people. Can visitors attend non-religious events here too? Yes, the church hosts classical and choral concerts open to residents and visitors alike.

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Zeven Smartenkerk

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Zeven Smartenkerk is the parish church of Diegem-Lo, a small locality within the municipality of Machelen in Flemish Brabant, sitting close to the Brussels-Capital Region and Brussels Airport in Zaventem. The church stands on Lostraat and serves as the main landmark of this quiet, largely residential corner of Machelen, an area that has long lived in the shadow of the neighboring airport and the industrial zones around Diegem. When was the church built? Construction began in the late 1920s, with the cornerstone laid on 5 July 1928. Work progressed quickly for the standards of the time, and the church was consecrated already on 15 September 1929. The formal, solemn dedication, however, only took place several years later, on 3 August 1936, performed by Cardinal Jozef-Ernest Van Roey, then Archbishop of Mechelen-Brussels. This gap between the practical consecration right after construction and the later ceremonial dedication led by the country's highest church official suggests the parish waited for the right moment to mark the new building's importance to the local community properly. Who designed it and what was it built from? The church was designed by architect Juliaan De Ridder in the neo-Romanesque style, a design language that drew on medieval religious architecture while relying on the modern building techniques available in the early twentieth century. The structure combines concrete with local sandstone. Notably, part of the stone did not come from a fresh quarry: it was reused from the demolished wall surrounding the nearby Kasteel Beaulieu castle in Machelen. This kind of material reuse was fairly common in Belgium in the years following the First World War, when builders often recovered stone and other materials from older structures that had been damaged or were being rebuilt. What stands out in the building's design? The most distinctive feature of the front façade is a massive tower on the left side, originally topped with a tent-shaped roof. This tower dates from 1936, the same year as the church's formal dedication, suggesting its completion was part of the preparations for that ceremony. Just five years later, in 1941, the tower's roof was lowered; the available sources do not spell out the exact reason, though building and material restrictions during the German occupation of Belgium in that period frequently prompted this kind of alteration to existing structures. Inside, the church houses sculptures by Paul Stoffels, a Belgian artist active in the first half of the twentieth century. These works form part of the church's artistic furnishing and reflect a pattern common to neo-Romanesque churches of the era: a plain, solid exterior paired with a richer sculptural program inside. Why is this church worth a visit? Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Zeven Smartenkerk is not a headline tourist attraction, but it offers a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in interwar religious architecture in Belgium or in the local history of Machelen and the wider Brussels area. It illustrates how smaller parishes in the region approached new church construction between the two world wars, pairing a clear stylistic ambition — neo-Romanesque design, a prominent tower, and figurative sculpture — with a pragmatic approach to building materials. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is the church located? On Lostraat in Diegem-Lo, part of the municipality of Machelen in Flemish Brabant, close to Brussels Airport in Zaventem. Who designed the church? Architect Juliaan De Ridder, working in the neo-Romanesque style. When was it consecrated? On 15 September 1929, after the cornerstone was laid on 5 July 1928. Who performed the formal dedication, and when? Cardinal Jozef-Ernest Van Roey, on 3 August 1936. What materials was it built from? Concrete and sandstone, part of which was reused from the demolished wall of the Kasteel Beaulieu castle in Machelen.

Église Saint-Pholien de Liège

Liège

Église Saint-Pholien de Liège is a neo-Gothic parish church in the Outremeuse district of Liège, standing at the eastern end of Boulevard de la Constitution. The church is dedicated to Saint Foillan (also known as Feuillen, Foilan or Pholien), a 7th-century Irish monk and missionary who founded the abbey of Fosses-la-Ville. How old is this church? The parish on this site dates back to 1189, when it was officially founded by Eustache des Prez. Over the following centuries, three successive buildings stood on the same spot as earlier structures were replaced to keep pace with the parish's needs and the condition of older walls. The last of these historic churches did not survive intact into the modern era: in 1910 it was torn down so the city could carry out a new street layout through this part of Outremeuse. A completely new building rose on the site and was inaugurated in 1914 — and that is the structure still standing today. Who designed the current building, and in what style? The present church was designed by architect Edmond Jamar, who chose the neo-Gothic style then widely favored in Belgium at the turn of the 20th century, drawing on the forms of medieval Gothic cathedrals and parish churches. The floor plan consists of three naves spanning five bays, a transept, and a three-sided apse — a layout typical of large Gothic churches, giving the interior the elongated, solemn character expected of a principal parish church serving a densely populated urban district. What can visitors see inside? The interior holds several works of art from different periods. The oldest is a 14th-century sculpture known as the Vierge des Écoliers (Virgin of the Schoolchildren), which survived the repeated rebuildings and the eventual demolition of the earlier church. Also notable is a 17th-century silver figure, the Vierge des Tanneurs (Virgin of the Tanners), whose name recalls the parish's historical ties to the leather-working guild — a trade long associated with the riverside district of Outremeuse. The decor is completed by works from 1937 by Pierre Brouwers, which brought interwar artistic sensibilities into a building otherwise dominated by its neo-Gothic architecture. Where exactly is the church located? Église Saint-Pholien stands in Outremeuse, one of Liège's historic districts, formed by the branches of the Meuse river. The church closes off the eastern end of Boulevard de la Constitution, making it a clear landmark for anyone moving through this part of the city. Frequently asked questions Is the current building the original centuries-old church? No — although the parish dates to 1189, the present building only dates from 1914. The earlier church on the site was demolished in 1910 to allow for a new street layout in Outremeuse. Who is the church dedicated to? Its patron is Saint Foillan (Feuillen), a 7th-century Irish monk and missionary remembered as the founder of the abbey of Fosses-la-Ville. What architectural style is the building? It was built in neo-Gothic style, with three naves over five bays, a transept and a three-sided apse, designed by architect Edmond Jamar. What is worth seeing inside? The two most valuable pieces are Marian statues — the 14th-century Vierge des Écoliers and the 17th-century silver Vierge des Tanneurs — alongside decorative work by Pierre Brouwers from 1937.

Saint Sava Church

Molenbeek-Saint-Jean - Sint-Jans-Molenbeek

Saint Sava Church is a Serbian Orthodox church at Rue des Etangs Noirs 100 in Molenbeek-Saint-Jean (Sint-Jans-Molenbeek), one of the nineteen municipalities of the Brussels-Capital Region. The building's story, though, doesn't start with an Orthodox congregation — it began decades earlier as a Roman Catholic parish church. Where did this building come from? The church was designed by architect Victor Degand and built in brick in 1924 as the Église Notre-Dame Médiatrice (Our Lady Mediatrix). Its cornerstone was laid on 25 March 1925, and the completed building was consecrated by Monseigneur Tessens on the last Sunday of January 1926. For most of the 20th century it operated as an ordinary Catholic parish serving this part of Molenbeek. How did it become an Orthodox church? The change of use came at the end of the 20th century: since 1999, the building has housed the Serbian Orthodox community as Saint Sava Church (also known as Saint Sava Serbian Orthodox Church). The name honors Saint Sava, founder of the autocephalous Serbian Orthodox Church and one of the most significant figures in Serbian religious tradition — churches bearing his name exist in Serbian communities across the world. Repurposing former Catholic churches for other Christian denominations is not unusual in Brussels, a city with more church buildings than practicing Catholic congregations to fill them, which has opened space for other communities. Is it a protected heritage site? Yes — the building was added to the architectural heritage inventory of the Brussels-Capital Region on 19 August 2024. The listing concerns the original 1920s architecture designed by Degand rather than its later Orthodox use, underlining that the building's heritage value lies in its interwar-era design and detailing. Where exactly is it located? The church stands at Rue des Etangs Noirs 100, in a densely built, urban section of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean close to central Brussels. Its coordinates are approximately 50.855°N, 4.328°E, an area well served by public transport from the Belgian capital's center. Frequently asked questions Is this a Catholic or an Orthodox church? Today it is a Serbian Orthodox church, but it was built between 1924 and 1926 as the Roman Catholic Notre-Dame Médiatrice. The change to Orthodox use took place in 1999. Who designed the building? Architect Victor Degand, whose design dates to 1924. Why is it named after Saint Sava? Saint Sava is the founder and patron saint of the Serbian Orthodox Church, which is why many Serbian Orthodox churches around the world, including this one in Brussels, carry his name. Is the building officially protected as heritage? Yes, it has been listed in the Brussels regional architectural heritage inventory since August 2024.

Church of Saint Martin

Zaventem

The Church of Saint Martin in Zaventem is a Gothic parish church standing at the heart of the town, with roots reaching back to the 11th and 12th centuries. While most of today's structure reflects later rebuilding campaigns, the lower part of the tower still preserves genuine Romanesque masonry from that earlier period — the oldest surviving fragment of the building and a clear sign that a place of worship stood here even before the close of the 9th century, when the parish came to be associated with the cult of Saint Martin of Tours. How did the church evolve over the centuries? The church's present Gothic appearance is the result of extensive rebuilding carried out during the 16th and 17th centuries. In 1567 the Romanesque choir was substantially lengthened to accommodate the needs of a growing congregation. A few decades later, between 1599 and 1605, the tower was raised in height and fitted with two sound openings on each side — a detail that still gives the tower its distinctive rhythm today. A further major expansion came in the 19th century. Faced with a rapidly growing population in Zaventem, the church fabric board decided in 1862 that the building needed to be enlarged. Construction work followed in 1863–1864, adding a neo-Gothic section that allowed the church to accommodate its expanding parish — this 19th-century addition now stands alongside the much older core, giving the building a visibly layered architectural history. What makes this church stand out on the art map? The Church of Saint Martin owes much of its international recognition to a single work of art: a painting by the Flemish Baroque master Anthony van Dyck. The canvas depicts a scene from the legend of Saint Martin — the moment when the Roman soldier cuts his cloak in two to share it with a freezing beggar. The work dates from around 1621 and counts among van Dyck's early paintings, created while he was still a very young artist building his reputation in the shadow of Rubens. Today it is considered one of the most valuable pieces of Flemish painting preserved in a parish church in the region, and it remains the main reason art lovers from across Europe make the trip to see it. Why is the church a protected monument? Given its historical and architectural value, spanning medieval remnants and later layers of rebuilding, the Church of Saint Martin was listed as a protected immovable heritage monument on 25 March 1938. The protection covers the entire structure, from the Romanesque base of the tower through the Gothic and neo-Gothic additions to the interior furnishings. Frequently asked questions What is the Church of Saint Martin in Zaventem? A historic Gothic parish church with a Romanesque core dating to the 11th–12th centuries, located in the center of Zaventem. What artwork is housed inside the church? A painting by Anthony van Dyck from around 1621, showing Saint Martin sharing his cloak with a beggar — one of the artist's early works. Since when has the church been a protected monument? It has been listed as protected immovable heritage since 25 March 1938. What is the oldest part of the building? The lower section of the tower, which preserves genuine Romanesque construction from nearly a thousand years ago.

Church of Our Lady of Lourdes

Jette

Church of Our Lady of Lourdes is a parish church in the Brussels municipality of Jette, standing on Charles Woestelaan in the Esseghem neighbourhood. The site actually brings together two chapters of local history: an older shrine built around a grotto, and a newer parish church erected in the mid-20th century a short distance away. How did the Esseghem parish come about? The story starts in 1913. Jette's population was growing so fast at the time that the existing Saint Peter's parish could no longer serve the new Esseghem district properly. Cardinal Mercier responded by commissioning Michel Swalus, then assistant pastor at Saint Peter's, to establish a new parish centre for this part of town. Swalus became the driving force behind the devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes that would define the site. What is the grotto and the Lourdes domain? Before today's larger church existed, a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes was built on the original domain, together with a grotto — a spot locals still affectionately call "'t grotteke van Jette." During the interwar years an adjoining plot was acquired, allowing for a sloping park laid out with a Way of the Cross: fourteen Stations, fifteen rosary chapels, and a small Calvary hill. The whole ensemble is a notable example of rustic cement work ("rocaille") by Octave Tondeleir, an architect from Vieux-Dieu who specialised in this kind of devotional landscaping in Belgium. The original neo-Gothic church on the domain was eventually converted into the grotto's chapel once the new parish church was finished. How did the current church on Charles Woestelaan come to be? As the parish kept growing, the old chapel could no longer accommodate the congregation. The first stone of the new, larger Our Lady of Lourdes church was laid on 9 May 1948, near the original domain, on Charles Woestelaan. This building has served as the main parish church ever since, while the older structure on the domain continues its life as the grotto chapel. What stands out inside the church? One of the most distinctive features is the set of stained-glass windows, designed in the 1930s by master glazier Fernand Crickx. They depict saints alongside biblical scenes from the lives of Mary and Jesus, reinforcing the strongly Marian, devotional character that runs through the whole site — from grotto to church. Frequently asked questions Are the church and the grotto the same place? Not exactly — it is one overall site but two distinct structures: the newer parish church on Charles Woestelaan (1948) and the older grotto chapel on the original domain, which also includes the Stations of the Cross and the rosary chapels. Who created the park with the grotto and Way of the Cross? The rustic cement work in the park was carried out by Octave Tondeleir, an architect-rocailleur who specialised in this style of devotional garden design in interwar Belgium. What are the most distinctive features inside the church? The 1930s stained-glass windows by Fernand Crickx, depicting scenes from the lives of Mary and Jesus along with various saints. Why was the parish founded specifically in Esseghem? Because Jette's rapid population growth in the early 20th century meant the existing Saint Peter's parish could no longer adequately serve the fast-expanding Esseghem district.

Sint-Martinuskerk

Steenokkerzeel

Sint-Martinuskerk is the parish church of Melsbroek, a village within the municipality of Steenokkerzeel in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant. Standing on Vanheylenstraat, it has served as the religious heart of this small community near Brussels for almost nine hundred years. How old is this church? The first mention of a parish church in Melsbroek dates back to 1134. At that time, patronage rights over the church belonged to the Sint-Goedele chapter in Brussels, one of the region's most important ecclesiastical institutions. The original building was Romanesque in style, and its tower, built in the 12th century, was unusually placed above the priest's choir rather than at the traditional entrance side. What changed during the Middle Ages? In 1304 the church underwent a significant expansion: a new nave with two side aisles was added. This gave the building a three-aisled layout typical of larger parish churches of the period and allowed it to accommodate a growing congregation. What damage did the religious conflicts cause? The second half of the 16th century brought serious damage to Sint-Martinuskerk. The religious conflicts that shook the Low Countries at the time did not spare Melsbroek, and the church suffered heavy destruction. The choir, the most severely affected part, was only rebuilt around 1600. The tower needed attention as well: in 1729 it underwent a thorough restoration that returned it to its former condition. Where did the current classicist building come from? The most dramatic transformation took place between 1780 and 1781. Both the old choir and the nave were demolished and replaced by a new classicist structure. The historic tower was incorporated into the new east facade, an unusual architectural solution in itself. This reconstruction also reversed the church's orientation: the building now faces west, whereas its original medieval layout, following tradition, faced east. The new structure was built from locally quarried sandstone and takes the form of a pseudo-basilica. What can visitors see inside? The interior of Sint-Martinuskerk holds several notable pieces. A baroque side altar on the south side of the church displays a painting of the Charity of Saint Martin, dated 1656, directly referencing the church's patron saint. The church also houses three reliquaries, among them relics associated with Saint Ursula and the eleven thousand virgins from her medieval hagiographic legend. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is the church located? On Vanheylenstraat in Melsbroek, part of the municipality of Steenokkerzeel in Flemish Brabant, close to Brussels. How far back does its history go? The parish is first recorded in 1134, though the church owes its current classicist appearance to the 1780–1781 rebuilding. What is the oldest surviving part of the building? The 12th-century tower, later incorporated into the new classicist east facade. What relics are kept in the church? Three reliquaries, including relics of Saint Ursula and the eleven thousand virgins.

Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

Bruksela

The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul stands on Place Peter Benoit in Neder-Over-Heembeek, a former Brabant municipality absorbed into the City of Brussels in 1921 and today one of its northern districts. Although the present building only dates to 1935, its roots stretch back to the medieval splitting of a single village into two separate parishes. How did one village end up with two churches? Heembeek began as a small settlement on the edge of medieval Brussels, gathered around a modest church. Over time a second hamlet grew up to the north with its own church, and the community eventually split into the parishes of Over-Heembeek and Neder-Heembeek. Both came under the authority of Dieleghem Abbey, in 1155 and 1112 respectively. This division persisted for centuries until 1814, when Upper and Lower Heembeek were finally merged back into a single parish. Even after that administrative reunification, two separate church buildings continued to serve the combined parish for over a century. The first calls for a new, unified church date back to 1911, but a concrete plan — one that also envisioned a new public square, Place Peter Benoit, as part of the district's urban development — was only approved by the municipal council in 1927. The decisive push came unexpectedly: in 1932 a fire destroyed the old Saint-Pierre church of Neder-Heembeek, of which only the Romanesque bell tower survives today. The fire accelerated construction of the new shared church. Architecture built to symbolize a merger Construction was completed in 1935 to a design by architect Julien De Ridder, who created a monumental, rationalist building with regionalist touches, executed in an Art Deco idiom. Its most distinctive feature is a pair of massive brick towers — and their presence was no accident. The archdiocese specifically required twin towers as a deliberate symbol of the two former parish churches, Neder- and Over-Heembeek, that the new building was replacing. The interior is not entirely new construction, however: artworks from both decommissioned churches were transferred into the new building. Among them are images of saints dating from the 16th to 18th centuries and several 17th-century paintings, including a Holy Family attributed to Théodore van Loon and a Descent from the Cross attributed to Peter Paul Rubens. Frequently asked questions Is this the oldest church in Neder-Over-Heembeek? No — the building itself dates only to 1935. It replaced two much older parish churches, one of which (Neder-Heembeek) burned down in 1932, leaving only its Romanesque bell tower standing. Why does the church have two towers? The twin brick towers were required by the archdiocese as a deliberate symbol of the two former parishes, Neder-Heembeek and Over-Heembeek, that the new church united. What historic artworks can visitors see inside? The interior preserves paintings and sculptures carried over from the two earlier churches, including 17th-century canvases attributed to Théodore van Loon and Peter Paul Rubens. Who designed the building? The 1935 design is the work of architect Julien De Ridder, who gave the church a monumental, rationalist Art Deco character with regionalist elements.

Sint-Jan Baptistkerk

Genk

Sint-Jan Baptistkerk is the parish church of the Boxbergheide district in Genk, in the Belgian province of Limburg, close to the grounds of the well-known Bokrijk open-air museum. The parish's full name is Sint-Jan Baptist de la Salle, and the building stands as a post-war example of religious infrastructure development in this former mining region. Where did this parish come from? The Sint-Jan Baptist de la Salle parish was established to serve residents well beyond the garden district of Boxbergheide alone. Church authorities set a clear priority at the time: building schools took precedence over building the church itself. In practice, this meant the congregation first worshipped in a provisional, temporary church, put up as a stopgap while schools for children from the surrounding mining settlements were treated as the more urgent need. Why was a new church built? The temporary chapel quickly became too small for the growing parish. In 1959, an architectural competition was held among three architects. The commission for the new church went to Louis Van De Vondel, an architect born in 1919 in Antwerp who later established his practice in Hasselt, where he went on to design a number of other buildings. How long did the project take? The path to the finished church was a long one. The architectural plans themselves were drawn up in 1961, but approval from all the relevant authorities took several more years. The building permit was not issued until 1966 — seven years after the competition was decided. The newly built church was consecrated in September 1967, finally ending the parish's long wait for a permanent home of its own. Where does the church's dedication come from? The church is dedicated to Saint John Baptist de La Salle, born Jean-Baptiste de La Salle (1651–1719). He came from a wealthy family but chose a religious vocation instead, and was ordained a priest in 1678. His name is carried by both the parish and the church in Boxbergheide, giving rise to the full official name Sint-Jan Baptist de la Salle, often shortened locally to Sint-Jan Baptistkerk. What's worth knowing when exploring the area? The church sits next to Bokrijk, one of Belgium's best-known open-air museums, which brings together historic rural and craft buildings from across the Limburg region. For visitors touring Bokrijk, the church in Boxbergheide adds an authentic piece of local architectural fabric — an example of post-war religious construction built in response to the rapid growth of the working-class and mining communities around Genk. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is Sint-Jan Baptistkerk located? The church stands in the Boxbergheide district of Genk, in Limburg province, near the grounds of Bokrijk. Who designed the church? It was designed by architect Louis Van De Vondel, chosen through a competition held among three firms in 1959. When was the church consecrated? It was consecrated in September 1967, a year after the building permit was finally granted in 1966. Where does the church's dedication come from? It is named after Jean-Baptiste de La Salle (1651–1719), a priest ordained in 1678, whose name also gives the parish its full title, Sint-Jan Baptist de la Salle.

Sint-Sebastiaanskerk

Sint-Sebastiaanskerk is the parish church of Linkebeek, a small municipality in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant, just south of Brussels. The brick, classicist building visitors see today dates from 1773–1778, but the site's history stretches back much further, spanning at least four distinct construction phases. How far back does the site's history go? The oldest part of the complex is a chapel built in 1110 by Godfrey with the Beard, Count of Leuven. It was dedicated to Saint Sebastian, patron saint of archers — a fitting choice in a region where archery guilds held real social weight. This early, Romanesque phase is the first of four recognizable stages in the building's history, alongside its Gothic choir sections and a later thorough reconstruction. What role did Charles the Bold play? In 1469, during a visit to Linkebeek, Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, founded the "Brotherhood of Saint Sebastian" and presented it with a guild book (guldenboek) that still survives today. The funds tied to this foundation allowed the church to be enlarged with "three choirs": transepts on the north and south sides and a high choir to the east. It was this Gothic phase that gave the building the spatial layout whose traces partly survived later rebuilding. Why was the church rebuilt in the 18th century? The reconstruction unfolded in three clearly documented phases. In 1751, a sacristy was added on the east side. In 1773, the tower was rebuilt slightly further west, an investment financed by the abbess of the Forest (Vorst) abbey, historically tied to this area. The most radical change came in 1778: most of the church's nave was demolished, leaving only the Gothic transepts and the wall adjoining the sacristy standing. As a result, the current structure combines medieval fragments with classicist architecture from the second half of the 18th century — hence the distinctive mix of styles within a single building. What is the church's heritage protection status? The church and its surroundings were listed as a protected landscape on 13 August 1953, while the building itself was granted monument status on 7 April 1995. This two-step protection — first the surrounding landscape, only later the building — reflects how Belgian heritage authorities historically approached such sites: the setting was valued first, and the architecture itself was formally recognized decades later. What should visitors look out for? Visitors can spot a clear contrast between the older Gothic sections — the transepts and the fragment of wall by the sacristy — and the newer classicist portion built in the 1770s. For anyone interested in local history, the surviving guild book of the archers' brotherhood is a notable relic, a tangible link to the medieval traditions built around the cult of Saint Sebastian in the town. Frequently asked questions How old is the Sint-Sebastiaanskerk in Linkebeek? Its oldest element, a chapel, dates from 1110, while the current, largely classicist building was constructed between 1773 and 1778. Why is the church dedicated to Saint Sebastian? Saint Sebastian is the patron saint of archers, and archery guilds had a long tradition in the region — which is why the dedication was chosen already for the 12th-century chapel. Who contributed to the church's medieval expansion? Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, founded the Brotherhood of Saint Sebastian in 1469 and funded the addition of three choirs. Since when has the church been a protected monument? The surroundings have been protected since 1953, and the building itself gained monument status in 1995.

Sint-Eventiuskerk

Genk

Sint-Eventiuskerk is a parish church in the Winterslag district of Genk, in eastern Belgium's Limburg province, located at Noordlaan 80. It was built in the 1930s to serve the residents of what was known as the second cité of Winterslag – a workers' housing estate built for the miners of the nearby coal mine. This mining origin explains the modest, functional character of the church's architecture: it was never meant to be a monumental landmark, but rather a place of everyday worship for the working-class community that settled around the colliery in the first half of the 20th century. Who designed the church? The church was designed by architect Auguste vanden Nieuwenborg, with construction dated to around 1935. It rose during a period of rapid expansion for Genk, when the town transformed from a small village into an industrial center thanks to coal mining. Churches like Sint-Eventiuskerk were built in a similar, almost standardized fashion across the successive mining cités of the region, to provide pastoral care for the growing number of families brought in to work the mines, many of them from abroad. What does the church look like? The building stands out from typical church architecture of its time: it is a white structure topped by a strikingly large, steeply pitched roof that also covers much of the choir section of the church. The roof is finished with orange-red tiles, giving the building a warm, distinctive color visible from a distance. Two small roof turrets sit on the ridge, but the church lacks a conventional tall tower – an unusual choice for a Catholic church of this period, underlining the modest, "popular" character of an architecture adapted to its working-class surroundings. To whom is the church dedicated? The church's dedication is unusual: its patron is Saint Eventius, a figure virtually unknown in general veneration, whose historical existence is nowadays questioned by hagiography scholars. This rare choice of patron saint sets Sint-Eventiuskerk apart from most other churches in the region, where dedications to well-known saints dominate. What is happening with the church today? For decades the church served as a center of religious and social life for the Winterslag district, forming part of the network of gebedshuizen (houses of prayer) in Genk, a city that in recent years has faced declining congregations and the need to reorganize its church properties. A symbolic moment in the building's history came on Sunday, June 28, 2026, when a thanksgiving service was held at 11 a.m., presided over by dean Luc Herbots, during which the local faith community said goodbye to the church building they had known for generations. This event mirrors a broader trend seen across many Belgian towns, where parishes merge or cease using particular buildings as pastoral needs evolve. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is Sint-Eventiuskerk located? At Noordlaan 80 in the Winterslag district of Genk, in Limburg province, eastern Belgium. When was the church built? Around 1935, designed by architect Auguste vanden Nieuwenborg. Why does the church have no tower? Its architecture was adapted to the modest, working-class character of the mining estate it served – two small roof turrets replace a conventional tower. Who was Saint Eventius? A little-known saint whose historical existence is questioned by scholars today; the church is one of the few religious buildings bearing his dedication. Is the church still used for worship? In June 2026 a thanksgiving service marked the end of its role for the local faith community, suggesting a change in its status or purpose.

Church of St. John the Baptist

Molenbeek-Saint-Jean - Sint-Jans-Molenbeek

The Church of St. John the Baptist in Molenbeek-Saint-Jean (Dutch: Sint-Jans-Molenbeek) is one of the most distinctive religious buildings in western Brussels — a monumental Art Deco structure that gave the entire municipality its name. Where does the municipality's name come from? Veneration of St. John the Baptist on this site goes back to the 9th century, when a wooden church dedicated to him already stood here, linked to a foundation associated with Saint Gertrude of Nivelles — whose statue still stands in the transept of the current building. The first written record of the parish dates to 1174, when Pope Alexander III listed it in a papal bull as part of the property belonging to the chapter of the Collegiate Church of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels. The name of the municipality, Molenbeek-Saint-Jean, comes directly from this original church's patron saint. How did the parish boundaries change over time? In the Middle Ages, the parish of St. John the Baptist covered a much larger territory than today's municipality, extending all the way to the river Senne. From the late 12th century, its territory also included a chapel dedicated to Saint Catherine. When Brussels built its second ring of city walls, this part of the parish was separated and gradually developed into its own church — today's Church of St. Catherine near the Quai aux Briques. Why was the current building only built in the 1930s? The medieval church was eventually replaced by a 19th-century building, which over time fell into disrepair and could no longer serve the growing parish. The decision was made to construct an entirely new church on the same site. The project was entrusted to architect Joseph Diongre, who drew up the plans in 1931 in a modernist Art Deco style. Construction, carried out between 1930 and 1932, took only fifteen months — a remarkably fast pace given the scale of the structure. What makes the church's architecture distinctive? Diongre kept the traditional Latin cross floor plan but gave the building a clearly modern character. Its most recognizable feature is the slender bell tower, rising up to 56 meters and integrated directly into the front façade — an unusual solution for a church of that era. The exterior walls of the façade are clad in pale Brauvilliers stone, giving the building its distinctive light color visible from a distance. Inside, the architect used several varieties of Belgian marble, creating a rich yet restrained decor. The church is one of only three churches in Brussels built almost entirely of reinforced concrete — an innovative construction method at the time, allowing for bolder spans and a lighter, more open structure than traditional masonry religious buildings. Frequently asked questions Is the current church the same building as the medieval one? No. The present structure dates from 1930–1932 and replaced a 19th-century church, which had itself replaced the medieval one — but every successive building on this site has been dedicated to the same patron, St. John the Baptist. Who designed the current church? Architect Joseph Diongre, who drew up the Art Deco plans in 1931. Why is this church significant for the municipality's history? The name of the entire municipality, Molenbeek-Saint-Jean (Sint-Jans-Molenbeek), comes from this parish's patron saint. What materials was the church built from? The structure is mostly reinforced concrete, the façade is clad in Brauvilliers stone, and the interior features Belgian marble.

National Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Koekelberg

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Brussels is one of the largest churches in the world and the defining landmark of the Koekelberg district, which is why it's often known simply as the Koekelberg Basilica. Its massive brick-and-reinforced-concrete structure, crowned by a green copper dome rising 89 metres above the ground, dominates the northwestern skyline of Brussels and is visible from many parts of the city. Where did the idea for the basilica come from? Back in the mid-19th century, King Leopold I dreamed of turning the then-uninhabited Koekelberg plateau into a royal residence. After his death, his son, King Leopold II, imagined something different: a Belgian pantheon honoring the nation's great figures. The turning point came in 1902, when Leopold II visited the construction site of the Sacré-Cœur basilica on Montmartre in Paris. He decided Brussels deserved a comparable monument, linked to the city centre by a grand boulevard modeled on the Champs-Élysées. How long did construction take? Leopold II himself laid the cornerstone in 1905, with the entire project conceived to mark the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence. Construction, however, stretched across several decades and was interrupted twice by the two World Wars. The basilica wasn't finally completed until 1971 — more than six decades after the first stone was laid. Why is its architectural style so unusual? The original design, by architect Pierre Langerock, was Neo-Gothic. After the First World War, the whole concept was reworked: architect Albert Van Huffel took over the project, and together with Paul Rome gave the building its distinctive Art Deco form while retaining elements inspired by Neo-Byzantine architecture. This blend of two stylistically distant traditions makes the basilica look unlike any other great church in Europe, and it remains a subject of debate — some consider it an architectural masterpiece, others a controversial experiment. How big is the basilica? The building measures 89 metres in height and 167 metres in length, covering roughly 8,000 square metres. These dimensions place it among the largest churches in the world, with many rankings listing it as the fifth-largest. The silhouette is defined by two slender flanking towers and an almost equally tall central green copper dome, which has become one of the symbols of this part of Brussels. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is the basilica located? In the Koekelberg district in northwestern Brussels, set on a hill visible from many vantage points across the city. Who initiated its construction? The idea for a grand church on the Koekelberg plateau originated under Leopold I, and it was his son, King Leopold II, who acted on it after visiting the Sacré-Cœur in Paris in 1902. Why did construction take so long? Work that began in 1905 was interrupted by two World Wars, and a shift in architectural concept from Neo-Gothic to Art Deco further delayed the project — the basilica was finally finished in 1971. How does it differ from other great European churches? It combines Art Deco forms with Neo-Byzantine elements, making it stylistically unique compared with the classic Neo-Gothic or Baroque churches of similar scale.

Sint-Stefanuskerk

Zaventem

Sint-Stefanuskerk is a neo-Gothic parish church in Sint-Stevens-Woluwe, a former independent municipality now part of Zaventem in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant. The building stands on the site of a much older church and remains a defining landmark of this part of town, its tall tower projecting forward of the main facade and visible from a considerable distance. What did the earliest church on this site look like? The oldest stone church on this spot most likely dates back to the Romanesque period, in the 12th century. Over the following centuries the building was repeatedly altered and expanded to keep up with the needs of a growing parish. Records point to renovation work carried out in 1613, which may have included the construction of the northern aisle. A further phase of expansion came in 1767, when a southern side aisle was added at the request of pastor Johannes Peeters. Through these successive layers, the church grew organically, mirroring the shifting needs and resources of the local community over time. Why was a new church eventually built? By the mid-19th century the old church had become too small for the congregation, and its physical condition was increasingly a cause for concern. In 1869 church authorities ordered that plans be drawn up for a completely new building. The commission went to architects F. Baeckelmans and A. Capronnier, whose final design was approved by both the church council and the municipal council in 1875. Construction of the new church took place between 1876 and 1879, a period when neo-Gothic architecture dominated church building across Belgium and much of Western Europe. What does the present-day church look like? The new church was solemnly consecrated in the summer of 1879. Its floor plan follows a Latin cross, with a three-aisled nave of six bays and a west tower that projects in front of the facade, still a defining silhouette in this part of Zaventem today. The transept consists of two bays with a flat closure, while the choir is made up of two bays ending in a lower, pentagonal apse. This spatial arrangement, typical of neo-Gothic church design, creates a strong sense of hierarchy inside the building, guiding the eye of worshippers toward the main altar. Around 1900, general maintenance and conservation work was carried out under the direction of architect H. Jacobs. This effort was aimed at keeping the relatively young building in good technical condition after its first two decades of use and protecting it against the effects of time and weather. Where is the church located, and what should visitors know? Sint-Stefanuskerk stands in Sint-Stevens-Woluwe, a district of Zaventem close to Brussels Airport. Because of this proximity to one of Belgium's busiest transport hubs, the surrounding area blends the character of a historic former village with the modern infrastructure of the greater Brussels region. The church tower is visible from far away and functions as a natural point of reference for anyone navigating the neighborhood. Frequently asked questions Is the church open to visitors? As an active parish church, it is generally accessible in line with the service and opening schedule typical of Catholic parishes in the region. Which saint is the church dedicated to? The church is dedicated to Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, whose name is shared by both the building and the wider parish of Sint-Stevens-Woluwe. How does the current building differ from the original church? The present neo-Gothic structure dates from 1876-1879 and replaced a much older, repeatedly rebuilt church whose origins reach back to the Romanesque period.

Church of St. Anthony of Padua

Etterbeek

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua is a neo-Gothic Catholic church standing at the very center of the oval Place Saint-Antoine in Etterbeek, one of the municipalities of the Brussels-Capital Region. At the start of the 20th century this part of Etterbeek was still on the edge of the built-up city, and it was precisely the urban development of the area that gave rise to the square and the parish gathered around it. When was the church built? Construction began in 1905 and continued, in stages, until 1935 — a thirty-year span. The project was carried out in two main phases. The first, completed in 1906, produced the choir, one bay, the nave and the transept. The second phase, finished only in the 1930s (by 1933), added the tower, the facade and the gallery. Such a long, interrupted building process was not unusual for large parish churches of that era: the needs of a growing congregation often outpaced the funds available to complete each successive section. Who designed the church? The design is the work of architects Edmond Serneels and Georges Cochaux. They chose a neo-Gothic style inspired by the pointed-arch architecture of the late 13th century — the mature Gothic idiom, with its elongated forms and richly decorated window tracery. This stylistic choice was typical of many parish churches built in Belgium at the time, when neo-Gothic was seen as a natural continuation of the country's medieval sacred architecture. What makes the building's layout distinctive? The church's most distinctive architectural feature is its position: it has two facades, facing north and south respectively, each fitted with stained-glass windows and rose windows. The two facades visually close off two separate forecourts, which form the northern and southern sections of the oval Place Saint-Antoine. This arrangement makes the church the visual anchor of the entire public space around it, regardless of which side of the square a visitor approaches from. What is the building's heritage status? The church was listed as a protected national heritage monument in 2004. The listing recognizes the building's historical and architectural value as a record of Etterbeek's urban development at the turn of the 20th century, when the municipality's still largely rural areas began turning into denser urban neighborhoods. Frequently asked questions How long did it take to build the Church of St. Anthony of Padua? Construction spanned thirty years in total, from 1905 to 1935, carried out in two clearly separated phases. Who designed the church? It was jointly designed by architects Edmond Serneels and Georges Cochaux. Why does the church have two facades? Because of its position on the oval Place Saint-Antoine, the building closes off two separate forecourts, on the north and south sides, hence the two equally prominent, stained-glass-decorated facades. Is the building a protected heritage site? Yes, the church has been listed as a protected heritage monument since 2004. Where exactly is the church located? It stands at the center of Place Saint-Antoine in the municipality of Etterbeek, in the southern part of the Brussels-Capital Region.

Sint-Anna ten Drieënkerk

Sint-Anna-ten-Drieënkerk is a parish church standing on Hanegraefstraat in Antwerp's Linkeroever district, on the opposite bank of the Scheldt from the city's historic center. Although the settlement known as "Sint-Anneke" traces its roots to a medieval pilgrimage site, the current building is much younger — it was completed in 1970 and only gained protected monument status half a century later, in 2020, in recognition of its historical, architectural and artistic value. Where does the name come from? The church has only officially carried the name Sint-Anna-ten-Drieën since 2004. The name refers to an image depicting Mary, her mother Anna, and Jesus, dating from 1667. That image in turn refers back to a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint Anne, which from 1330 onward served as the destination of pilgrimages known locally as "Sint-Anneke" — a tradition that has survived in local memory far longer than the original chapel itself. What does the interior architecture look like? The new church was designed by architect Jos Ritzen, who conceived a multipurpose space shaped like a scallop shell — a reference to the symbol carried by pilgrims of Saint James. The interior was designed without any sightline-blocking elements, meaning the altar and liturgical space remain visible from almost anywhere inside. A distinctive feature of the interior is its abstract glass-and-concrete windows, created by French glass artist Jacques Loire of Chartres, a city famous for one of France's most renowned Gothic cathedrals — an interesting point of reference for a maker of modern stained glass. When was the church consecrated? Construction was completed in 1970, and the new church was solemnly consecrated on November 28 of that same year by Monsignor Jules Victor Daem, Bishop of Antwerp. Since then it has served as the main place of worship for the residents of the Linkeroever district. What is the church used for today? Sint-Anna-ten-Drieën stands out for an unusual profile of activity for a place of worship — it operates as an "eco-church", a "cycling church" and a "fair trade church". These labels reflect the parish's commitment to social and environmental initiatives that go beyond the traditional role of a house of prayer. The building also offers notable functional flexibility: a movable altar and a slightly sloped floor make the space well suited to concerts and exhibitions, not only religious services. Frequently asked questions Is the church a protected monument? Yes, since 2020 the building has held protected monument status, recognized for its historical, architectural and artistic value. Who designed the church? The design is the work of architect Jos Ritzen, who gave the interior the shape of a Saint James shell, free of any sightline-blocking elements. Where do the stained-glass windows come from? The abstract glass-and-concrete windows were created by French artist Jacques Loire of Chartres. Can concerts or exhibitions be held here? Yes — the movable altar and gently sloped floor make the interior suitable for cultural events as well as liturgical ones. Where exactly is the church located? On Hanegraefstraat, in the Linkeroever district on the western bank of the Scheldt, facing Antwerp's historic center.

St. Rumbold's Cathedral

Mechelen

St. Rumbold's Cathedral in Mechelen is the principal church of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels and one of the most recognisable religious landmarks in northern Belgium. Standing right in the heart of Mechelen, it is dedicated to St. Rumbold (Rumoldus), the patron saint of the city and, according to local tradition, its first bishop. How was the cathedral built? The building is a three-aisled cruciform church. Construction of the nave began as early as the 13th century, and the church itself was consecrated in 1312. A new building campaign started around 1335, during which the main nave was raised and the choir was further extended, giving the interior a more monumental character. This long, staged construction process means the cathedral combines architectural elements from several phases of Gothic style, typical of the great urban churches of this part of Europe. What is the cathedral's biggest attraction? The most distinctive feature of the complex is its tower, standing over 97 metres tall. The first stone for the tower was laid in 1452, although the exact spot of that ceremony is no longer known. Actual construction work began in 1462 under the direction of Andries Keldermans, a member of a well-known family of architects and builders active in the Low Countries at the time. The tower was completed in 1520, after nearly seven decades of work. What makes Mechelen's carillons famous? The cathedral tower is renowned for its two carillons — sets of tuned bells played to produce melodies. The first bells were installed in 1492 by Wouter Scheers, but just six years later a major fire in the tower destroyed almost the entire instrument, ruining most of the bells. A new chapter in the carillon's history began in 1981, when the tower received a new municipal carillon weighing 40 tonnes and comprising 49 bells. It is the heaviest carillon in Belgium and the fourth heaviest in Europe, making Mechelen one of the most important centres of this traditional bell-ringing art on the continent. Why is the tower listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? The tower of St. Rumbold's Cathedral is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of a larger group — a total of 56 belfries and church towers across Belgium and France, registered under the joint listing number 943-016. This recognition highlights the exceptional architectural and cultural significance of this type of structure in the history of Dutch- and French-speaking cities, where church towers served not only a religious purpose but also symbolised municipal power and civic identity. Frequently asked questions Who is the Mechelen cathedral dedicated to? The cathedral is dedicated to St. Rumbold, the patron saint of Mechelen, and serves as the main church of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels. How tall is the cathedral tower? The tower stands over 97 metres tall; it was built between 1462 and 1520. How many bells does the tower's carillon have? The current municipal carillon, installed in 1981, consists of 49 bells and weighs 40 tonnes — the heaviest carillon in Belgium. Is the tower part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Yes, it belongs to a listing covering 56 belfries and church towers in Belgium and France.

St James's Church

Liège

St James's Church in Liège stands among the city's most remarkable religious landmarks, with a history stretching back to the early 11th century. The building began life as the abbey church of a Benedictine monastery founded in 1015 under Prince-Bishop Balderic II, successor to Bishop Notker. Positioned along the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, the abbey quickly grew into one of the most influential monastic communities in the Prince-Bishopric of Liège, becoming a hub of intellectual life and historical record-keeping, particularly during the early 15th century. How has the church's architecture evolved? Little remains of the original Romanesque structure apart from the tower, which still dates to the 11th century and stands as the oldest surviving part of the complex. The main body of the church was thoroughly rebuilt in the 16th century in the Flamboyant Gothic style, giving it the imposing silhouette visitors see today. In 1558, a Renaissance portal was added, attributed to Lambert Lombard, one of the leading artists working in Liège at the time. This blend of Romanesque tower, Gothic nave, and Renaissance entrance makes the church a rare record of centuries of architectural change in the region. What can visitors discover inside? The interior of St James's Church holds an unusually rich collection of period features. The choir is lit by 16th-century stained-glass windows, including a notable depiction of the city's historic trade guilds — a unique visual record of Liège's economic past. The church also preserves 14th-century monks' choir stalls and an organ with a Renaissance case dated to 1600. Baroque statues from the 17th century, created by Jean Del Cour, one of the most celebrated sculptors active in Liège during that era, add another layer to the building's artistic heritage. How did the church's religious status change over time? The building's story is not only architectural but also institutional. In 1785, Pope Pius VI secularized the abbey, converting it into a collegiate church served first by twenty-five, then thirty canons. During the French Revolution, the building was even used as stables, before returning to religious use as a parish church following the Concordat of 1801 — a role it continues to fulfill today. What recognition has the church received? St James's Church has been a protected monument since 1936, and in 2022 it was granted the status of exceptional heritage of Wallonia, one of the region's highest conservation distinctions. Together, these recognitions underline the building's importance as a place where history, art, and the collective memory of Liège converge. Frequently asked questions When was the Saint-Jacques abbey founded? The Benedictine abbey was founded in 1015 by Prince-Bishop Balderic II. In what architectural style is the current church built? The main structure dates from a 16th-century rebuilding in the Flamboyant Gothic style, while the tower remains Romanesque from the 11th century. What are the highlights inside the church? Visitors are drawn to the 16th-century choir stained-glass windows depicting historic trade guilds, the 14th-century choir stalls, and the Baroque statues by Jean Del Cour. Has the building always served as a parish church? No — from 1785 it functioned as a collegiate church, was used as stables during the Revolution, and only regained its parish role after the 1801 Concordat. What protected status does the church hold today? It has been a listed monument since 1936 and was recognized as exceptional heritage of Wallonia in 2022.

Mary Magdalene Chapel

Bruksela

Mary Magdalene Chapel (French: Chapelle Sainte-Madeleine, Dutch: Magdalenakapel) is a modest yet remarkably old place of worship tucked into the heart of Brussels, just a short walk from the Grand-Place. At first glance it may look like just another small church on the old town's map, but its story reaches back to the 13th century and connects it to some of the earliest religious foundations in the city. Where did the chapel come from? The original building on this site was established by the Saccite monks, who founded a convent here in the 13th century. That early structure did not survive intact: in 1580, during a turbulent period of religious conflict and political upheaval in the Low Countries, it was destroyed. What visitors see today is largely the result of a reconstruction carried out in the 15th century, executed in the late Brabantine Gothic style typical of religious architecture in the region at the time. What lies beneath the foundations? One of the most intriguing chapters in the chapel's history comes from archaeological work carried out during a later restoration. Excavations beneath the floor uncovered the remains of much older sub-foundation walls, leading researchers to a striking hypothesis: the current building may stand on the site of an even earlier sanctuary, believed to have been built by the Knights Templar. If that theory holds, it would place a place of worship on this exact spot long before the Gothic rebuilding, making the chapel one of the oldest sacred sites in Brussels. What does the chapel look like today? The building's structure reflects several historical layers stacked on top of one another. A distinctive red-brick exterior contrasts with the grey stone of the nave inside, where slender Gothic arches draw the eye upward. In the 15th century the church was expanded with two side aisles; during that period it functioned as part of a religious convent, and its interior held the tombs of prominent local citizens as well as altars endowed by the city's craft guilds — a common practice in medieval towns across Flanders and Brabant. Among the most recognizable features is a Baroque portal dating from 1637, which stands out stylistically against the Gothic body of the building and reflects the successive phases of alteration the chapel underwent over the centuries. The interior is lit by contemporary stained-glass windows, designed and installed in the 1950s as part of a thorough restoration carried out between 1957 and 1958. That project aimed to bring the building's appearance as close as possible to its original 15th-century form. Why is it worth a visit? Mary Magdalene Chapel is one of the oldest surviving churches in Brussels and a compact showcase of how different eras — medieval Gothic, Baroque additions, and 20th-century conservation — can coexist within a single, small-scale building. Its location just steps from the Grand-Place makes it an easy addition to any walk through the historic city center, requiring no detour at all. Frequently Asked Questions Where exactly is the chapel located? In the very center of Brussels, within easy walking distance of the Grand-Place. Is it still an active place of worship? The building continues to serve as a place of worship in the city center, though given its small size it functions more as an intimate chapel than a large parish church. What is the oldest part of the building? The foundations are the oldest element — archaeologists believe they may predate the 15th-century Gothic reconstruction, possibly dating to the era of the Knights Templar. How long does a visit take? Being a small site, seeing the interior and exterior typically takes only about fifteen to twenty minutes.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Chèvremont

Vaux-sous-Chèvremont

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Chèvremont stands on Chèvremont hill, overlooking a bend of the Vesdre river, in the municipality of Chaudfontaine in the province of Liège, Belgian Wallonia. It is one of the region's most significant Marian pilgrimage sites, and its story runs far deeper than the imposing building visitors see today. Where does the site's history begin? The tradition tied to Chèvremont hill goes back to the 7th century. According to local accounts, Saint Begge (580–639) lived here with her husband Ansegisel, within a fortress that occupied this strategically elevated position above the Vesdre valley. For centuries the hill combined a military role — controlling the surrounding area — with a growing religious significance that eventually overshadowed its original defensive purpose. How did the first chapel come about? The seed of today's religious complex was a chapel built by English Jesuits, who ran a college of philosophy and theology in nearby Liège. The chapel was constructed in 1688, and less than a decade later, in 1697, it already had to be enlarged — the number of faithful and pilgrims arriving had outgrown the original building. This small, historic Jesuit chapel still stands today next to the far larger basilica, offering a tangible link to the sanctuary's earliest days. Why was a much larger church eventually built? As pilgrimage traffic grew through the 19th century, the modest Jesuit chapel could no longer keep up with demand. The decision was made to construct an imposing neo-Gothic basilica, designed by the Dutch architect Cuypers, known for his work in the historicist Gothic revival style. The first stone of the new church was laid on September 3, 1877. Construction proved difficult, however: serious moisture problems and a shortage of funds forced the work to be halted for a period. The church was eventually consecrated on September 8, 1899, and less than three decades later, on August 24, 1928, it was elevated to the status of minor basilica. How did the war leave its mark on the basilica? World War II inflicted serious damage on the building — its vault collapsed and its stained-glass windows were shattered. Remarkably, the small historic chapel of the English Jesuits, standing right beside the main basilica, survived the destruction almost untouched, which underscores its unique standing as the oldest surviving element of the entire religious site on the hill. What should visitors know before coming? The basilica sits on a hilltop above the Vesdre valley, in the municipality of Chaudfontaine near Liège — a location that on its own offers a scenic view over the surrounding countryside. The site layers several eras of history together: a medieval legend surrounding Saint Begge, a 17th-century Jesuit chapel, and a monumental neo-Gothic basilica from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, rebuilt after wartime destruction. Frequently asked questions What is the Basilique Notre-Dame de Chèvremont? It is a minor basilica and Marian pilgrimage sanctuary located on Chèvremont hill in the municipality of Chaudfontaine, province of Liège, Belgium. When was the current basilica built? Its foundation stone was laid in 1877, the church was consecrated in 1899, and it was granted minor basilica status in 1928. Are there older buildings still standing on the site? Yes — next to the basilica stands a small English Jesuit chapel from 1688 (enlarged in 1697), which survived even the destruction of World War II. What is the story behind Chèvremont hill? It is tied to the legend of Saint Begge, who is said to have lived here in the 7th century with her husband Ansegisel, within a former defensive fortress.