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Church of Our Lady of the Chapel: A Historic Brussels Landmark

Discover the Church of Our Lady of the Chapel in Brussels: a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture with centuries of history.

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The Church of Our Lady of the Chapel, or Kapellekerk, is a Catholic church in Brussels' Marolles district. Built in a Romanesque-Gothic transitional style between the 12th and 13th centuries, it stands as a testament to Brussels' rich history and architectural evolution.

A brief summary to Church of Our Lady of the Chapel

  • Pl. de la Chapelle, Brussels, Brussel, 1000, BE

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take time to explore the Marolles district surrounding the church, known for its unique shops and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Look for the funeral monument of Pieter Bruegel the Elder, a famous painter buried in the church.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Church of Our Lady of the Chapel is easily accessible by public transport. From Brussels Central Station, take bus line 33 towards Chapelle. The bus ride is approximately 4 minutes, and the church is a short walk from the Chapelle/Kapellekerk bus stop. A single ticket costs €3.

  • Walking

    From the Grand Place, the Church of Our Lady of the Chapel is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head south towards Rue de l'Étuve/Stoofstraat, then continue onto Rue du Midi/Zuidstraat. Turn left onto Rue de la Chapelle/Kapellestraat, and the church will be on your left. This route allows you to explore the charming streets of Brussels.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Brussels. A taxi ride from Brussels Central Station to the Church of Our Lady of the Chapel typically costs between €17 and €55, depending on the time of day and traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt also operate in Brussels.

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Discover more about Church of Our Lady of the Chapel

The Church of Our Lady of the Chapel, known locally as Kapellekerk, is a significant religious and historical site in Brussels, located in the vibrant Marolles district. Dedicated to Our Lady of the Chapel, this Catholic church has evolved through centuries, reflecting various architectural styles and historical events. Originally built between the 12th and 13th centuries on the site of an earlier chapel, the church showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. The southern part of the transept and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, constructed around 1215–1225, exemplify the Romanesque-Gothic transitional style. The choir, dating back to 1250–1275, is considered a prime example of 13th-century architecture in Brussels, influenced by French transitional styles. A fire in 1405 led to the nave's reconstruction in the Brabantine Gothic style, with added side chapels. The Baroque slate bell tower, a later addition, dates from the 18th century. Throughout its history, the Church of Our Lady of the Chapel has been a place of burial for notable figures, including the famous painter Pieter Bruegel the Elder, who was interred here in 1569. His sons erected a funeral monument in his honor, which remains in place today. The church also houses part of the relics of Saint Boniface of Brussels. Today, it serves as the parish church for the Polish Catholic community in Brussels, with a venerated icon of Our Lady of Częstochowa in a side chapel. The church has undergone several restorations, including significant work in the late 19th century and again in the 1980s and 1990s, aimed at preserving its original features and architectural integrity. Designated as a historic monument in 1936, the Church of Our Lady of the Chapel stands as a remarkable landmark, inviting visitors to explore its rich heritage and admire its architectural beauty.

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