Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste-au-Béguinage
Church of St. John the Baptist It is practically the last remnant of the Beguinage founded in the 13th century. In this place stood the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Vigne, which was plundered in 1579 by Calvinists and eventually demolished in 1584. Construction of the new church, which has survived to this day, began in 1657. It was consecrated in 1676.
The church, built on a cruciform plan, is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque in Belgium. The design of the church is attributed to the great architect Lucas Faydherbe. The late Baroque façade displays all the architectural trends of the late 17th century, including pilasters, columns and entablature. The main altar is located under the hexagonal bell tower. In 1801 the temple of St. John the Baptist was raised to the rank of a parish church.
Church of St. John the Baptist in the Beguinage, photo. Monika Rochowiak.
Interior of the temple of St. John the Baptist in Brussels
Inside the church there are paintings and sculptures typical of 17th-century Flemish art. A wonderful example of Baroque sculpture is the pulpit dedicated to St. Dominic, founder of the Dominican Order. The pulpit, built in 1757, was brought here from the church in Mechelen.
Equally interesting are the beautiful 18th-century confessionals, decorated with allegorical women holding objects related to the sacrament of reconciliation. Particularly noteworthy are the magnificent paintings by the Flemish Baroque painter Theodor van Loon. Adoration of the Magi and Coronation of Saint Ursula through the Child Jesus.
After years of demolishing houses, including to make way for a hospice, the Beguinage came to an end in 1856. In its heyday, approximately 1,200 beguines lived here. In November 2000, a fire broke out and destroyed the church roof. It was rebuilt in 2006.
Equally interesting are the beautiful 18th-century confessionals, decorated with allegorical women holding objects related to the sacrament of reconciliation. Particularly noteworthy are the magnificent paintings by the Flemish Baroque painter Theodor van Loon. Adoration of the Magi and Coronation of Saint Ursula through the Child Jesus.
After years of demolishing houses, including to make way for a hospice, the Beguinage came to an end in 1856. In its heyday, approximately 1,200 beguines lived here. In November 2000, a fire broke out and destroyed the church roof. It was rebuilt in 2006.
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Address:
Place du Béguinage
1000 Brussels |
Opening hours:
Monday: closed
Tuesday-Saturday: 11:00-17:00 Sunday: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM |
Fare: Free admission
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