Sint-Pieterskerk

In the heart of Turnhout, a charming town in the northern Belgian province of Antwerp, stands the magnificent Sint-Pieterskerk, a beacon of history and architectural splendor. Officially known as the Deanery Church of Saint Peter and Saint Barbara, this Roman Catholic edifice has witnessed centuries of change and remains a cherished landmark for locals and visitors alike.

A Journey Through Time

The origins of Sint-Pieterskerk trace back to the 12th century, coinciding with the establishment of Turnhout. Although much of the original structure has been altered or rebuilt over the centuries, the lower part of the western tower is a surviving remnant from this early period. In 1398, the church gained prominence when Duchess Maria of Gelderland founded a chapter of twelve canons, marking the beginning of a significant transformation.

The 15th century brought substantial changes under the tenure of Dean-Magister G. Hebscap. A new chancel with an ambulatory and radiating chapels was constructed, along with a new transept. The church's tower was also heightened during this period, giving it the imposing stature it holds today. The 16th century saw the addition of a sundial on the southern wall, a testament to the church's continual adaptation to the times.

Architectural Evolution

One of the most captivating aspects of Sint-Pieterskerk is its architectural diversity. Over the centuries, various styles have been incorporated into its design, reflecting the prevailing trends of each era. Although predominantly built in the Campine Gothic style, the church features elements from different periods, creating a unique and eclectic aesthetic.

In the first half of the 18th century, notable changes were made by Antwerp master builder Jan Pieter van Baurscheidt the Younger. He expanded the nave, constructed side aisles, and raised the vault in the transept. These modifications were completed in 1740, enhancing the church's grandeur. Later, in 1775, the churchyard was enclosed by a wall, which played a role in the Battle of Turnhout in 1789. This year also marked the dissolution of the chapter of Sint-Pieterskerk, a significant social change during the Brabant Revolution.

Restoration and Modernization

As the centuries passed, Sint-Pieterskerk underwent several restorations to preserve its historical and architectural integrity. In 1969, following the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council, a new marble altar was installed in the center of the crossing. This altar stands above an ancient crypt, believed to have served as a burial place for the canons in the distant past.

Renowned architect Jozef-Louis Stynen, a winner of the Belgian Prix de Rome in 1933, submitted a restoration plan in 1972. Approved in 1978, the restoration work began in 1987 and concluded in 1990, just before Stynen's death. The reopening of the church was celebrated with a solemn Eucharistic service led by Bishop Paul Van den Berghe, the 21st Bishop of Antwerp.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside Sint-Pieterskerk, visitors are greeted by a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The interior is characterized by white-plastered walls and vaulted ceilings, a design choice that dates back to Jan Pieter van Baurscheidt the Younger's 18th-century renovations. The nave is flanked by relatively narrow side aisles, leading to the spacious central aisle and the strikingly high transept.

The High Choir

The high choir, constructed to accommodate the increased number of clergy following the establishment of the chapter in 1398, is a focal point of the church. Walter Pompe, an esteemed baroque artist, created an extraordinary two-level altar in 1740. The lower level features an image of Saint Peter facing Christ, while the upper level depicts Saint Barbara, the church's secondary patron saint, surrounded by trumpeting angels.

On either side of the altar, beneath the columns, are busts of church fathers Saint Jerome and Saint Ambrose on the left, and Saint Gregory and Saint Augustine on the right. The choir also houses impressive canon benches, originally from the former priory of Corsendonk, adorned with intricate wood carvings by Joannes Claudius De Cock.

Stained Glass and Symbolism

The church's windows are adorned with beautiful stained glass, illustrating scenes from the lives of its patron saints. Notable among these are the depictions of Saint Peter being addressed by Christ, walking on the Sea of Galilee, and being freed from prison. The windows dedicated to Saint Barbara, created by Samuel Coucke of Bruges in 1878, portray her conversion to Christianity, her accusation of treason, her martyrdom, and her condemnation to death.

The Crossing and Ambulatory

At the center of the crossing stands the marble altar installed in 1969, while high above, a 16th-century triumphal cross captures attention. The cross features symbolic representations of the four evangelists: John at the top, Matthew at the bottom, and Luke and Mark at the ends of the crossbeam.

The ambulatory, illuminated by numerous stained glass windows, is a bright and inviting space. The Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows, located on the southern side, houses a statue of Mary by Pieter Pauwel De Meyer, dressed in a purple mantle symbolizing sorrow. The neo-Gothic altar in this chapel was crafted by sculptor Karel Stroobant in 1901.

Chapels and Artifacts

Further along the ambulatory, visitors will find a large 18th-century confessional from the old hospital, likely the work of one of the Pompe brothers. Opposite the confessional hangs Trinistas terrestris - The Holy Family, a painting by Frans Quartier S.J. from the former Jesuit church.

The Chapel of St. Vincent de Paul features a depiction of H.J. Van Cantelbeke, a notable cleric, and an altar created by Karel Stroobant in 1902. The Chapel of St. Joseph contains a small 17th-century pulpit from the chapel of Zondereigen and an altar by A. Strymans, commemorating Dean E.H. J. Pittoors.

As visitors approach the choir closure, they are greeted by a large, intricately detailed stained glass window depicting Jerusalem and the Presentation in the Temple, created by Jean-Baptiste Capronnier in 1884. Nearby, another stained glass window from 1903, donated by Joannes Josephus Adrianus Maria de Fierlant, portrays the four evangelists and four church fathers.

The Chapel of St. Anne, enclosed by a gate designed by Walter Pompe, is the final resting place of Hendrik de Kinschot and his wife, Barbara de Meldaw. This chapel also features a stained glass window commemorating Walter Franciscus Joannes Van Genechten and E.H. Joannes Antonius Innocentius van Genechten, a former pastor in Brussels.

In the adjacent radiating chapel, the neo-Gothic altar of the Sacred Heart, crafted in 1901, stands as a testament to the church's enduring legacy. The window in this chapel, created by Leopold Pluys of Mechelen, depicts Saint Martin and Saint Joanna of Valois, with an inscription commemorating M.P.J. Van Moll and his wife, J.M. Nuijens.

Sint-Pieterskerk is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of history, art, and faith. Each corner of this magnificent church tells a story, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the rich heritage of Turnhout. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Sint-Pieterskerk promises to be an unforgettable journey through the ages.