Chapel Church (Church of Our Lady of the Chapel) in Brussels

The Church of Our Lady of the Chapel, or simply Chapel Church, located in the Marolles/Marollen district of Brussels, is a Roman Catholic beautiful church worth visiting.

What makes the Church of Our Lady of the Chapel even more intriguing is its connection to the famous Flemish painter Pieter Bruegel the Elder. Bruegel, one of the most renowned painters of the Northern Renaissance, was a resident of Brussels during the 16th century. It is believed that he was buried in this very church in 1569.

Although the exact location of his grave remains a mystery, the church stands as a poignant reminder of the artist’s influence on Flemish art and his lasting impact on the cultural heritage of Belgium.

History

The Church of Our Lady of the Chapel has a long history that dates back to the 12th century. The original church was built in the Romanesque style, but it was later expanded and renovated in the Gothic and Baroque styles. The church has survived many wars, including the French Revolution and World War II, and has undergone several restorations.

Architecture

The church’s architecture is a combination of various styles due to the different renovations it has undergone. The Romanesque style can still be seen in the lower part of the tower and in the crypt, while the Gothic style is prominent in the nave and the choir. The Baroque style is evident in the decoration and the altarpieces. The interior of the church is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and sculptures.

The church also houses several noteworthy art pieces, including the altarpieces, the pulpit, and the baptismal font. The stained glass windows, dating from the 16th to the 20th century, are also worth seeing. Visitors can also visit the crypt, which houses the remains of Saint Guido of Anderlecht, a patron saint of Brussels.