Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle

The Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle, known locally as Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-over-de-Dijlekerk, is a magnificent Gothic church nestled in the charming city of Mechelen, Belgium. With its origins tracing back to 1236, this architectural gem has stood as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage, captivating visitors with its timeless beauty and storied past.

A Journey Through History

The Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle has a history as captivating as its architecture. The earliest mention of the church dates back to 1236, marking the establishment of a parish that would become a central part of Mechelen's spiritual life. However, the original structure did not survive the catastrophic city fire of 1342, leading to the construction of the current edifice in the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries.

The church showcases the Brabantine Gothic style, a regional variant of Gothic architecture characterized by its ornate detailing and vertical lines. The oldest surviving parts of the church include the tower base from the 14th century and the facades of the side aisles. Over the centuries, the church underwent several phases of construction and expansion, with the nave completed between 1450 and 1480, and the choir added around 1500. The church was finally completed by the end of the 16th century.

Architectural Marvels

The Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle is renowned for its architectural splendor. The north portal, attributed to the renowned architect Rombout Keldermans, is a masterpiece of Gothic artistry, showcasing intricate carvings and a sense of grandeur. In the 17th century, architect Jacob Franquart contributed three chapels, adding to the church's architectural diversity.

The church faced significant challenges during the 20th century, particularly during the World Wars. In 1914, the south side was heavily damaged during the German invasion, and further destruction occurred in 1944 and 1945 due to bombings and storms. Despite these setbacks, the church was meticulously restored in two phases after World War II, preserving its historical integrity while modernizing its facilities.

Inside the Church

Stepping inside the Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle is like entering a sanctuary of art and history. The church is home to an array of artistic treasures, including several 16th-century frescoes and a collection of Marian statues. Among these is the Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Scheve Lee, the oldest statue in the church, believed to date back to the 14th century.

Visitors are often drawn to the baroque pulpit, created in 1718 by Willem Ignatius Kerrickx. This ornate structure is rich in iconographic symbolism, providing a visual narrative of biblical stories. The high altar, crafted by Antoon Pastorana in 1690, is another highlight, exuding a sense of opulence and spiritual reverence.

The Rubens Connection

A significant attraction within the church is the painting The Miraculous Draught of Fishes by the illustrious Peter Paul Rubens. This baroque masterpiece, originally created for the altar of the Mechelen fishmongers, depicts a biblical scene with dramatic flair and vivid detail. Although the painting was seized during the French occupation in 1794, it was partially returned in 1816, and its central panel was rediscovered in 2008, adding to the church's rich artistic legacy.

The Organ and Carillon

The church's organ, built between 1958 and 1968 by Jos Stevens, is a marvel of musical engineering. Incorporating elements from its baroque predecessor, the organ features 43 registers and provides a majestic backdrop to liturgical services and concerts. Additionally, the church boasts a modern carillon, realized in 1965, with 50 bells that resonate across Mechelen, continuing the city's long-standing tradition of bell music.

A Vibrant Parish

Today, the Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle serves as a vibrant parish, part of a larger community formed in 2014 through the merger of several local parishes. Known for its well-attended liturgical celebrations and the harmonious voices of its choir, the church continues to be a spiritual and cultural beacon in Mechelen.

In conclusion, the Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the resilience and faith of the Mechelen community. Its walls echo with centuries of history, art, and devotion, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting this enchanting Belgian city.