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Church of Saint Catherine: A Brussels Landmark

Discover the architectural wonder of the Church of Saint Catherine in Brussels, a serene cultural hub blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, surrounded by a vibrant square with dining and historical charm.

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The Church of Saint Catherine, Église Sainte-Catherine in French or Sint-Katelijnekerk in Dutch, stands as a captivating landmark in Brussels, Belgium. Built between 1854 and 1874, this Catholic parish church replaced a 15th-century predecessor, incorporating the site of a former dock. Designed by architect Joseph Poelaert, also known for Brussels' Palace of Justice, the church showcases an eclectic style blending Gothic structure with Renaissance and Baroque decoration, drawing inspiration from 16th-century French churches like St. Eustache in Paris. Its location on Place Sainte-Catherine places it amidst a vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by restaurants and historical remnants, making it a serene escape and a cultural focal point in the heart of Brussels.

A brief summary to Church of Saint Catherine

  • Monday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Check the church's schedule for special events or concerts that may enhance your visit.
  • Explore the surrounding Place Sainte-Catherine for a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
  • Don't miss the nearby Black Tower, a remnant of Brussels' first defensive walls.
  • Take time to admire the stained-glass windows inside the church, best viewed in the afternoon light.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Church of Saint Catherine is easily accessible by public transport. The Sainte-Catherine/Sint-Katelijne metro station (lines 1 and 5) is located directly beneath Place Sainte-Catherine, with station exits leading directly onto the square in front of the church. A single metro ticket costs €3 and is valid for 60 minutes with unlimited transfers within the STIB/MIVB network.

  • Walking

    From Brussels Central Station, the Church of Saint Catherine is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head north from the station towards Place de la Bourse, then continue along Rue Antoine Dansaert. The church will be visible at Place Sainte-Catherine. No costs involved.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Brussels Central Station to the Church of Saint Catherine typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the specific service used. The journey usually takes around 5-10 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of Place Sainte-Catherine can be limited and expensive. The Brucity car park, located under the new administrative center of the city, is less than 50 meters from Place Sainte-Catherine and offers 451 spaces. Hourly rates are approximately €3.24-€3.60, and a full day costs €25.20-€28.00. On-street parking is also available in the area, but it is subject to time restrictions and fees. Paid parking is enforced Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 21:00. Expect to pay around €2.00 for 1 hour or €5.00 for 2 hours.

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Discover more about Church of Saint Catherine

The Church of Saint Catherine, a prominent fixture in Brussels' cityscape, offers visitors a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's rich history. Located on Place Sainte-Catherine, the church stands as a testament to architectural eclecticism, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements into a harmonious whole. Its story is intertwined with the transformation of Brussels itself, rising from the filled-in basin of a former port to become a spiritual and cultural center. Construction of the current church began in 1854 and concluded in 1874, replacing a smaller, 15th-century Gothic church that had become inadequate for the growing parish. The architect, Joseph Poelaert, is also renowned for his design of the monumental Palace of Justice, a landmark in its own right. Poelaert's vision for Saint Catherine drew inspiration from 16th-century French churches, most notably the Church of St. Eustache in Paris, resulting in a unique blend of styles. The exterior of the church is characterized by a massive base of blue stone, reminiscent of the Palace of Justice, adorned with intricate profiles and robust buttresses crowned with gargoyles. This contrasts with the nave's elevation in Gobertange stone, supported by delicate flying buttresses, creating a visually striking balance. The Baroque bell tower, a remnant of the previous church, stands nearby, a tangible link to the site's layered past. The tower was restored between 1913 and 1930. Inside, the church exudes a sense of tranquility, offering respite from the bustling city outside. The white-rendered walls enhance the interior's sobriety, while the Neo-Renaissance furnishings, designed by the Goyers Brothers firm of Leuven, add a touch of understated elegance. Sunlight streams through exquisite stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns across the nave and illuminating the ornate altar. A 15th-century statue of the Black Madonna and Child, rescued from the Senne River during the riots of 1744, holds a place of honor behind glass on the altar. The Church of Saint Catherine is more than just a religious building; it's a cultural hub that hosts various events and concerts, bringing together locals and tourists alike. The surrounding Place Sainte-Catherine is a vibrant area filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, adding to the lively ambiance of this historic neighborhood. The square itself was expanded in 1870 by filling in the Marché aux Poissons/Vismarkt, further solidifying the church's central role in the community. However, the church has faced challenges throughout its history. In the 1950s, it was threatened with demolition to make way for an open-air car park, and in 2011, a project to transform the building into a covered market was under consideration. Fortunately, these plans were abandoned, and in 2014, the church was placed under the care of the priests of the Brotherhood of the Holy Apostles. Today, the Church of Saint Catherine stands as a protected historic monument, a testament to Brussels' architectural heritage and a symbol of the city's resilience. Visitors can explore the church's interior, admire its unique blend of architectural styles, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The surrounding area offers a wealth of dining and shopping options, making it an ideal destination for a day of exploration in Brussels. Several dozen meters behind the church is the Tour Noire (Black Tower), a fragment of one of the city's first defensive walls, built in the 12th century. It is integrated into a modern hotel. The church also houses the tomb of the French priest Antoine Arnauld (1612-1694), who spent the last 15 years of his life in exile in Brussels. He was a supporter of the Bishop of Ypres, Cornelius Jansenius, the founder of Jansenism, a theological and spiritual movement in the Catholic Church, banned by Pope Innocent X and then by Clement XI. Visiting the Church of Saint Catherine offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Brussels' architectural splendor and cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a serene spot to reflect during your travels, this majestic church will leave a lasting impression.

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