Sint-Harlindis en Relindiskapel

Nestled in the quaint village of Aldeneik, Maaseik, in the province of Limburg, Belgium, the Sint-Harlindis en Relindiskapel stands as a testament to the region’s rich religious and cultural history. This Roman Catholic chapel, dedicated to the holy sisters Harlindis and Relindis, along with Saint Anthony of Padua, offers visitors a serene and reflective experience amidst its historical and architectural charm.

The Historical Significance

The origins of the Sint-Harlindis en Relindiskapel trace back to around 1680 when it was constructed beside a well, believed to have been used as a baptismal font by Saint Willibrord during the Christianization of the area. This well, with its roots possibly in pagan traditions, was later covered with an open well house in the 19th century. An inscription once commemorated this site, noting its transformation from a Wodan well to a Christian baptismal font in the 7th century.

The chapel was consecrated on June 11, 1681, by Johannes Antonius Blavier, the auxiliary bishop of Liège. Over the centuries, the chapel has undergone various restorations, with significant maintenance work, including a roof renovation, in 2017. The interior and exterior were meticulously restored in the following years, preserving its historical essence while ensuring its structural integrity.

Architectural Beauty

The chapel’s architectural design is both simple and elegant. It features a rectangular layout with three bays and a three-sided chancel. The exterior walls, constructed from brick, are coated with a white clay layer, giving the structure a pristine and timeless appearance. The west façade is particularly notable, with its two-leaf entrance door flanked by small windows that once depicted the Crucifixion of Christ and the Madonna and Child. Above the entrance, a small window showcases Saint Peter with his keys and cross, and Saint Paul with his sword.

Six larger windows adorn the chapel, two on each side and two in the chancel, each narrating significant events or legends from the lives of Harlindis and Relindis. The roof is crowned with a small bell tower, adding a quaint charm to the chapel’s silhouette. Inside, a wooden staircase leads to a small gallery extending across the chapel’s width, offering a unique vantage point of the interior.

Exquisite Interior

The interior of the chapel is a harmonious blend of simplicity and artistic detail. The walls are whitewashed, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The barrel-vaulted ceiling is adorned with 18th-century stucco work depicting the Immaculate Virgin Mary standing on a crescent moon. The chancel ceiling features images of Harlindis and Relindis, each holding a crosier, symbolizing their religious devotion and leadership.

The centerpiece of the chancel is an 18th-century altar made of marbled wood, showcasing a painting of Calvary with the crucified Jesus, flanked by his mother Mary and the Apostle John. On either side of the altar stand white terracotta statues of Harlindis and Relindis, with the statue of Harlindis bearing the signature of B. Schillemans from Antwerp, dated 1851.

The Rose Miracle Window

One of the chapel’s most captivating features is the window depicting the Rose Miracle. This legend is intertwined with the history of the Aldeneik Abbey, founded around 730 by the sisters Harlindis and Relindis, daughters of the Frankish noble Adalardus and his wife Grinara. As the story goes, while collecting pebbles from the Maas River to create mosaics for the church floor, the sisters were questioned by their father about their burdensome task. They replied that they were carrying roses, and miraculously, the pebbles in their aprons transformed into roses.

The window illustrates several scenes from the lives of the sisters, including the death of Saint Harlindis, the Rose Miracle, the veneration of the holy virgins, the Candle Miracle, the charitable works of Harlindis and Relindis, and their ordination. These vivid depictions not only enhance the chapel’s aesthetic appeal but also serve as a visual narrative of the sisters’ pious lives and contributions to the Christian faith.

A Tranquil Surrounding

The chapel is surrounded by ancient linden trees, adding to its serene and contemplative ambiance. These trees, standing as silent witnesses to the passage of time, create a peaceful environment for visitors seeking solace and reflection.

In conclusion, the Sint-Harlindis en Relindiskapel is not just a religious monument but a beacon of historical and cultural heritage. Its walls echo stories of faith, devotion, and miracles, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the rich tapestry of Belgium’s religious history. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a pilgrim, the chapel promises an enriching and memorable experience.