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Saint-Monique Church: A Neo-Gothic Gem in De Haan

Discover the serene beauty and neo-Gothic architecture of Saint-Monique Church in the charming coastal town of De Haan, Belgium.

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Saint-Monique Church, a Catholic church in De Haan, Belgium, stands as a testament to neo-Gothic architecture with Byzantine influences. Built in the early 20th century and later expanded, it features a distinctive Cross of Lorraine floor plan and a serene interior, making it a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike.

A brief summary to Saint-Monique Church Of De Haan

Local tips

  • Visit during a service to experience the church's spiritual atmosphere and appreciate its acoustics.
  • Take a stroll through the surrounding Concessie estate to admire the unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Look for the inscription "SANCTA MONICA ORA PRO NOBIS" above the main entrance, a tribute to the church's patron saint.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Saint-Monique Church is located in the center of De Haan, easily accessible on foot from most points in the town. From the De Haan aan Zee coastal tram stop, walk inland along Leopoldlaan, then turn right onto Monicastraat. The church will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Coastal Tram (Kusttram) is a convenient way to reach De Haan. Get off at the De Haan aan Zee stop. From there, walk inland along Leopoldlaan, then turn right onto Monicastraat. The church is a short walk from the tram stop. A single fare on the Coastal Tram is around €2.50 - €3.50.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow the N34 (Koninklijke Baan) to De Haan. Turn onto Leopoldlaan, then right onto Monicastraat. Limited free parking is available on Monicastraat near the church, but a parking disc may be required for certain zones and times. Be aware that parking is limited to 5 spaces on the south side of the church. Check local signs for regulations. There are also other parking areas in De Haan. Parking is free, but a parking disc is mandatory in the blue zone for a maximum of 1 hour.

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Discover more about Saint-Monique Church Of De Haan

Saint-Monique Church, located in the charming coastal town of De Haan, is a notable example of religious architecture blending Neo-Gothic and Byzantine styles. The church's origins trace back to the expansion of the Concessie estate, a prestigious area designed in 1888 by London architect William Kidner at the request of King Leopold II. As the community grew, the need for a larger place of worship became apparent, leading to the construction of Saint-Monique Church. Completed in 1902, the church was initially dedicated by the dean of Ostend to Saint Monica, the mother of St. Augustine. The Augustine monks from Ghent played a significant role, establishing a monastery nearby and contributing to the church's early development. In 1920, architect Antoine Laenen from Schaarbeek designed a Neo-Byzantine extension to enlarge the church. Although the original ambitious plans were scaled back due to funding constraints, the church was further expanded in 1934, resulting in its current layout shaped like a Cross of Lorraine. The church's exterior is characterized by its brown-yellow brick construction, accented with red brick detailing along the eaves. A modest octagonal bell tower rises above the structure, and the main entrance features a gable adorned with a depiction of Saint Monica and the inscription "SANCTA MONICA ORA PRO NOBIS" and "ORD. S. AUGUSTINI HAAN AAN ZEE". Inside, the nave and two aisles showcase Neo-Gothic design elements with Byzantine influences. Sober furnishings, including confessionals, offertory boxes, and Stations of the Cross, contribute to the church's tranquil atmosphere. Stained glass windows in the chancel depict various saints, and the Stations of the Cross are rendered in bas-relief. The organ, built in 1968 by Jos Loncke and sons, adds to the church's rich artistic and spiritual ambiance. Today, Saint-Monique Church remains an integral part of De Haan, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a moment of reflection or an appreciation of its architectural beauty. The church is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering a welcoming space for prayer and contemplation.

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