Gasthuiskapel

The Gasthuiskapel in Aarschot, Belgium, is a hidden gem that beautifully encapsulates the rich tapestry of religious and cultural history in the region. This neo-gothic chapel, once part of the Saint Elisabeth Hospital, now stands as a multifunctional space, offering a glimpse into a bygone era while serving contemporary cultural needs.

The Historical Tapestry of Gasthuiskapel

Originally consecrated on July 25, 1905, the Gasthuiskapel was a spiritual sanctuary for the Saint Elisabeth Hospital, a place where the sick and their caregivers found solace. The hospital itself dates back to 1653, when religious orders took charge of healthcare in Aarschot. By 1655, the Grey Sisters of Sint-Annendael from Diest had established a new community, marking the beginning of a long-standing religious presence in the area.

As the 19th century drew to a close, the original chapel was in dire need of renovation. Unfortunately, the Grey Sisters lacked the financial means to undertake such a project. Enter Lodewijk Van Haesendonck, a local benefactor who, through a secret testament in 1900, bequeathed 210,000 francs for the construction of a new chapel. His generosity paved the way for the creation of the Gasthuiskapel, which was designed by the renowned Leuven architect Pierre Langerock.

Architectural Marvels

The Gasthuiskapel is a testament to neo-gothic architecture, characterized by its red Boom brick facade with decorative blue limestone accents. The chapel’s street-facing facade features a portico supported by columns, crowned with a pointed arch that houses a tympanum bearing the crowned monogram of Saint Elisabeth. The facade is further adorned with three lancet windows, which add a touch of elegance and grandeur.

The side walls are more austere, punctuated by buttresses and narrow lancet windows. A polygonal stair tower graces the southern wall, topped with a slate tent roof that adds to the chapel's vertical emphasis. Above the crossing, a small, pointed roof turret punctuates the slate gable roof, completing the chapel's striking silhouette.

Step Inside the Gasthuiskapel

Inside, the chapel's neo-gothic interior remains remarkably well-preserved. Original furnishings, floor tiles, wall paintings, and lighting fixtures all contribute to an authentic historical atmosphere. The Antwerp sculptor Jan Gerrits, following Langerock's designs, created the main altar. This masterpiece features medallions depicting prefigurations of the Holy Eucharist, while the predella showcases the twelve apostles under pointed arches.

Although the original altarpiece has been relocated to the Grey Sisters' convent in Rillaar, the chapel still boasts exquisite woodwork, including choir stalls, a pulpit, confessionals, and an organ case, all crafted by local artisan Evrard Claessens. The organ, inaugurated on January 8, 1907, was the crowning glory of the chapel's interior design.

A Cultural Renaissance

After the last mass was celebrated in 1990, the chapel underwent extensive renovations, reopening in 1999 as a versatile venue for performing arts, exhibitions, and lectures. Today, it forms an integral part of the Het Gasthuis Cultural Center, breathing new life into this historic edifice.

The chapel's stained glass windows, designed by the Ghent glass artist Gustave Ladon, are a highlight. They depict scenes from the lives of Christ, the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and saints like Saint Anthony and Saint Francis of Assisi. These vibrant windows are a nod to the chapel's religious heritage and artistic excellence.

The Bells of Gasthuiskapel

The chapel’s sacristy bell, crafted by the Mechelen bell founder Jan IV Vanden Gheyn in 1695, and the larger “Maria” bell, cast in 1905 by Marcel Michiels in Tournai, continue to echo the past, adding an auditory layer to the chapel’s rich history.

In conclusion, the Gasthuiskapel in Aarschot is not just an architectural marvel; it is a living monument that bridges the past and present. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a lover of the arts, a visit to this chapel promises a journey through time, offering insights into the spiritual and cultural evolution of this charming Belgian town.