Sint-Salvatorskathedraal

Sint-Salvatorskathedraal, nestled in the heart of Bruges, Belgium, stands as a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and religious significance. This magnificent cathedral, dedicated to the Holy Saviour and Saint Donatian, is not just a place of worship but a historical monument that has witnessed the ebb and flow of time and events that have shaped the city of Bruges.

The History of Sint-Salvatorskathedraal

The origins of Sint-Salvatorskathedraal trace back to the 9th century when it began as a humble Romanesque chapel. This early structure was established by the older parish of Snellegem, which is believed to have been founded by Saint Elooi around 646. The small chapel was elevated to the status of a parish church in 1089.

In 1127, following a devastating fire in 1116, construction began on a larger Romanesque church, which was unfortunately destroyed by another fire in 1166. The lower part of the tower, however, survived and remains the oldest part of the current structure. The church underwent significant transformations between 1250 and 1350, adopting elements of the Scheldt Gothic style, a transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

The period from 1480 to 1550 saw further expansions, including the construction of the choir, the transepts, and the ambulatory with five radiating chapels, all in the Brabantine Late Gothic style. These additions resulted in an unusual proportion between the different parts of the building, with the choir and transepts occupying more than half of the church's area.

Despite its grandeur, Sint-Salvatorskathedraal was not originally intended to be the city's cathedral. This status was conferred upon it in 1834 when the Bishopric of Bruges was re-established, and the church was officially designated as the Sint-Salvators- and Sint-Donaaskathedraal. To match its new status, the building underwent significant interior enhancements, incorporating artworks from the former Sint-Donaaskathedraal.

A catastrophic fire in 1839 led to the restoration of the tower, which was rebuilt in a Neo-Romanesque style between 1843 and 1846, designed by English architect Robert Chantrell and executed by Bruges architect Pierre Buyck. In 1921, Pope Benedict XV elevated the cathedral to the status of a minor basilica.

Architectural Marvels

The exterior of Sint-Salvatorskathedraal exudes a fortress-like appearance, with its robust Gothic structure devoid of flying buttresses but supported by heavy buttresses. The west tower, standing at 79 meters, is a remarkable blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements, featuring three bell openings characteristic of the Scheldt Gothic style, which were uncovered and restored during repairs in the early 1990s.

The church's interior is equally impressive, with its high Gothic transepts illuminated by large, intricately designed windows. The choir, inspired by the French High Gothic style, and the ambulatory with its five radiating chapels, showcase the elegance of Brabantine Late Gothic architecture. The expansion during the 15th and 16th centuries resulted in a unique spatial arrangement, with the choir and transepts occupying a significant portion of the church's footprint.

Artistic Treasures

Sint-Salvatorskathedraal is a treasure trove of art, housing numerous works from the demolished Sint-Donaaskathedraal. Among the most notable are the Brussels tapestries woven by Jasper van der Borcht in 1731, based on paintings by Jan van Orley. These tapestries were acquired by Bishop Hendrik Jozef van Susteren for Sint-Donatianus and now adorn the walls of Sint-Salvatorskathedraal.

The cathedral also boasts an impressive collection of paintings, including works by Jacob van Oost, Rogier van der Weyden, Dirk Bouts, Jan Garemijn, Lanceloot Blondeel, Pieter Pourbus, and Hugo van der Goes. The choir offers a view of the original 17th-century rood screen, which was relocated in the 20th century, and the cathedral organ, featuring a statue of God the Father by Artus Quellinus the Younger.

In the cathedral's museum, known as the treasury, visitors can admire Dirk Bouts' triptych depicting the Martyrdom of Saint Hippolytus, with the founders painted by Hugo van der Goes on the left panel. Other notable artworks include a Calvary from around 1520.

The Pulpit and Organs

The pulpit, crafted between 1777 and 1785 in Rococo and Louis XVI styles, is a masterpiece of acajou wood from the Caribbean. Designed by Hendrik Pulinx, the pulpit has received mixed reviews over the years, with some critics finding it lacking in life and expression. Nonetheless, it remains a significant artistic achievement, involving numerous craftsmen and artists.

The cathedral is home to two remarkable organs. The restoration of the romantic Klais organ and the baroque Van Eynde organ, approved in 2015, is a complex project due to the historical significance and condition of the instruments. The Klais organ, one of the most monumental in Flanders, will be housed in a new, larger case, while the Van Eynde organ will be restored to its original baroque splendor.

A Visit to Remember

Visiting Sint-Salvatorskathedraal is a journey through history, art, and architecture. From its Romanesque roots to its Gothic grandeur, the cathedral stands as a symbol of Bruges' rich cultural heritage. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, Sint-Salvatorskathedraal offers a captivating experience that will leave you in awe of its beauty and significance.