Priory of Basse-Wavre

The Priory of Basse-Wavre, known locally as Priorij Basse-Wavre, is a captivating historical site nestled in the charming town of Wavre in Belgium. Founded in the late 11th century, this Benedictine priory has a rich history that spans several centuries and offers visitors a glimpse into the religious and cultural heritage of the region.

The Founding of the Priory

The origins of the Priory of Basse-Wavre date back to the years 1092-1095, when the Counts of Leuven, Hendrik III and his brother Godfried I, established the priory. The counts had previously donated lands near the village of Wavre to the monks in 1086. Fulgentius, the abbot of Affligem, sent five Benedictine monks to the site, which was then an island in the Dijle River. The island, formed by a now non-existent branch of the Dijle called Fausse Eau, already housed a chapel. The monks expanded this chapel into a church and maintained a separate chapel dedicated to the veneration of Mary.

A Sanctuary of Relics

One of the most notable aspects of the Priory of Basse-Wavre is its connection to a revered reliquary. In 1152, Godfried I donated a chest of relics from a crusade to the priory. These relics were encased in a beautifully adorned chest crafted by silversmiths. The priory organized annual pilgrimages dedicated to Mary, which became a significant religious event from the 13th century onwards. During the 14th century, the monks brought the reliquary to Brussels to ward off the plague. The miraculous disappearance of the plague from Brussels increased the relics' fame. Despite the abbot of Affligem's attempts to claim the reliquary, it was returned to the priory, solidifying its association with the cult of Mary of Peace.

Surviving Turbulent Times

The Priory of Basse-Wavre endured numerous challenges throughout its history. During the religious wars of the 16th century, the original reliquary chest was destroyed. However, a new chest was commissioned, and in 1628, Jacobus Boonen, the Archbishop of Mechelen, funded its creation. Isabella of Spain, the governor of the Spanish Netherlands, also supported the priory by commissioning a new reliquary shrine and promoting the Marian cult. This period saw a revival of pilgrimages to Basse-Wavre, with the support of Archduchess Isabella and the new reliquary shrine.

The Grand and Petit Tours

From the 17th and 18th centuries, the scale of Marian pilgrimages to the Priory of Basse-Wavre increased significantly. The Benedictine monks designed two pilgrimage routes: the Grand Tour and the Petit Tour, both centered around the pilgrimage church. At the end of these routes, the monks distributed 15-kilogram loaves of bread adorned with flowers, known as Wastia. During this time, Prior Michel de la Porte acquired new furnishings for the church and the Marian chapel, while his successor, Prior Augustin van Opsdal, oversaw significant expansions of the church. The final construction phase in the early 18th century introduced baroque roof and facade elements, adding to the church's architectural splendor.

The French Revolution and Beyond

The French Revolution brought significant upheaval to the Priory of Basse-Wavre. In 1794, the French expelled the Benedictine monks, and in 1797, the priory was sold publicly. Despite the destruction of the priory buildings, the church was spared from demolition. In 1803, the French authorities designated the church as a parish church. The surrounding land was acquired by the Archdiocese of Mechelen in 1839, which established a secondary school and a primary school on the site. These institutions, known today as Collège Notre-Dame de Basse-Wavre, continue to operate.

A Modern Pilgrimage Site

In 1999, Pope John Paul II elevated the pilgrimage church to the status of a minor basilica, further cementing its importance as a religious site. The reliquary chest has seen several additions over the years, with the latest relics added in 1957, 2000, 2009, and 2015. The 2015 addition included a relic of Pope John Paul II himself, adding a contemporary connection to the priory's long history.

Today, the Priory of Basse-Wavre stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its community. Visitors to this historic site can explore its rich heritage, admire its architectural beauty, and experience the spiritual significance that has drawn pilgrims for centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a religious pilgrim, or simply a curious traveler, the Priory of Basse-Wavre offers a unique and enriching experience in the heart of Belgium.