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Collégiale Saint-Ursmer: A Carolingian Jewel

Explore one of Belgium's oldest churches, a Carolingian masterpiece with Romanesque and Mosan influences, offering a glimpse into medieval religious life.

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The Collégiale Saint-Ursmer in Lobbes is one of Belgium's oldest churches, with its essential parts dating back to the Carolingian era. Built by monks from the Abbaye de Lobbes between 819 and 823, it showcases a blend of Carolingian and Mosan architectural styles. Serving as the parish church for Lobbes, it overlooks the Sambre valley, offering scenic views.

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Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary between April-October and November-March.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the Jardin de Folcuin, a garden filled with aromatic herbs.
  • Explore the medieval quarter of Lobbes, including the Portelette, to learn about the area's rich history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Lobbes, walk towards Rue de la Station, then turn left onto Rue de l'Eglise. The church is a prominent landmark and should be visible as you approach. The walk should take no more than 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train from Charleroi-Sud station towards Binche. Get off at Lobbes station, a ride of approximately 15 minutes. From Lobbes station, walk to Collégiale Saint-Ursmer in about 20 minutes. Head northeast on Rue de la Station, then turn right onto Rue de l'Eglise. The church is located at Rue de l'Eglise 1. A single train fare from Charleroi-Sud to Lobbes typically costs between €3-€6.

  • Car

    From Charleroi, take the N5 towards La Louvière and merge onto the E42 towards Namur. Exit at Lobbes and follow signs for Rue de l'Eglise. The Collégiale Saint-Ursmer is located at Rue de l'Eglise 1, 6540 Lobbes. Parking is available nearby, but check local signage for any parking fees. Parking near the Grand-Place is a few minutes away from the church. Parking is free.

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The Collégiale Saint-Ursmer de Lobbes stands as a remarkable testament to Carolingian architecture and religious history in Belgium. Constructed between 819 and 823 by monks of the Abbaye de Lobbes, this Catholic church is one of the oldest in the country, retaining significant portions from its original Carolingian design. Over the centuries, the Collégiale Saint-Ursmer has seen relatively few alterations, allowing it to maintain its unique Carolingian character, particularly in the nave and western sections. Later additions showcase Mosan art influences, including the crypt, entrance, tower, and choir. The church's design reflects a blend of architectural styles, with Romanesque elements added during renovations in the 11th century. Today, the Collégiale Saint-Ursmer serves as the parish church for Lobbes, a town that developed around the influential Lobbes Abbey. Perched above the Sambre valley, the church provides picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, including the gentle slopes of the Lobach valley leading towards Anderlues. The site holds historical and artistic importance, drawing visitors interested in early medieval architecture and religious heritage. The church is classified as exceptional heritage of Wallonia. Inside, visitors can explore the crypt, which houses the tombs of Saint Ursmer and Saint Ermin. The church also features a garden, the Jardin de Folcuin, with aromatic herbs.

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