Basilica of Our Lady - Tongeren, Belgium
The Basilica of Our Lady in Tongeren can be seen from everywhere in the city. It's massive 64 metre tall tower dwarfs the other buildings and makes for an impressive and rather ominous looking tower.
The corner stone for the Basilica was laid in 1240. The present building is far expanded and made more grand than the original. The side chapels were added in the 13th and 15th centuries while the previous Romanesque style tower was replaced between 1442 and 1541 with the current gothic style.
The church itself has a very interesting history. Legend has it that Bishop Saint Servatius first built a church on this spot in the 4th century. Archeologist's can confirm from ancient masonry that there was indeed prior structures on this spot in the 4th century as well as the 9th century.
The Basilica of Our Lady also houses one of the richest collections of Belgian religious art and artifacts. The statue of "Our Lady of Tongeren" being one of its finest pieces of art, which was sculpted in 1475.
Personally I found several items of extreme interest, mainly the amazing ceiling and massive stain glassed windows.
The church is currently (2007) undergoing restorations and renovations which I am sure will only further develop the sanctity of this beautiful Basilica for years to come.
Basilica of Our Lady stands right in front of the Great Market, the statue of Ambiorix and a host of wonderful restaurants and pubs. Grab a seat in one of the open air cafes and enjoy the beautiful tower.
Happy Travels!
The corner stone for the Basilica was laid in 1240. The present building is far expanded and made more grand than the original. The side chapels were added in the 13th and 15th centuries while the previous Romanesque style tower was replaced between 1442 and 1541 with the current gothic style.
The church itself has a very interesting history. Legend has it that Bishop Saint Servatius first built a church on this spot in the 4th century. Archeologist's can confirm from ancient masonry that there was indeed prior structures on this spot in the 4th century as well as the 9th century.
The Basilica of Our Lady also houses one of the richest collections of Belgian religious art and artifacts. The statue of "Our Lady of Tongeren" being one of its finest pieces of art, which was sculpted in 1475.
Personally I found several items of extreme interest, mainly the amazing ceiling and massive stain glassed windows.
The church is currently (2007) undergoing restorations and renovations which I am sure will only further develop the sanctity of this beautiful Basilica for years to come.
Basilica of Our Lady stands right in front of the Great Market, the statue of Ambiorix and a host of wonderful restaurants and pubs. Grab a seat in one of the open air cafes and enjoy the beautiful tower.
Happy Travels!
