Brussels Sablon Church of Our Lady: Gothic Charm ⛪

Located in the Sablon Square of Brussels, the exquisite Gothic church known as the Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon stands as a historical landmark and artistic treasure of the city. This church has a history of over 700 years. 📍 Address: Rue des Sabonsl, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium 🌟 Church History:In the early 14th century, the Brussels crossbowmen's guild built a small wooden chapel on a sand dune, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.In 1348, a devout woman named Beatrijs Soetkens brought a discarded statue of the Virgin Mary to Brussels and entrusted it to the crossbowmen's guild. The church then gained fame.To accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims, the guild constructed the current magnificent Gothic church on the same site. ⛪️ Highlights of the Church:Flamboyant Gothic architecture: The church's exterior is ornate and intricate. The tall vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows inside create a sacred atmosphere.Stained glass windows: The 19th and 20th-century stained glass windows are a major highlight of the church. Donated by many noble families in the area, they are colorful and have exquisite patterns.Black marble chapel: The Chapel of St. Ursula, built by the Thurn und Taxis family, is made entirely of black marble and decorated with Carrara marble sculptures, exuding extreme luxury.Footsteps of historical figures: Many historical figures have close connections with this church. For example, Queen Mary of Hungary was baptized here, and writer Paul Claudel came here to pray every day.Long-standing musical tradition: The church has a long-standing musical tradition. Many famous musical works have had their premieres here. 🚶‍♀️ Visiting Tips:Free admission: The church is open for free all year round. There are collection boxes inside to support the maintenance of the church.Savor the details: There are many details in the church worth appreciating. For example, the spandrels on the choir stalls can be traced back to the early 15th century, like medieval comic strips.Attend events: The church regularly holds concerts and religious activities. You can check the schedule in advance. #Belgium #Brussels #Church #Historical Architecture