Sint-Quintinuskerk

In the heart of Zonhoven, a picturesque town in Belgium, stands the Sint-Quintinuskerk, a striking example of classicist architecture and a beacon of local history. Often referred to as the Cathedral of the Kempen, this church is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.

The History of Sint-Quintinuskerk

The origins of Sint-Quintinuskerk date back to the 9th century when Zonhoven was a daughter parish of Hasselt. The first church, likely a modest wooden structure, was built to serve the local community. As Zonhoven grew in prominence, so did its need for a more substantial place of worship. By the end of the 13th century or the beginning of the 14th century, a stone church was erected, complete with a robust early Gothic tower. This tower, with its 1.6-meter-thick walls, was not only a religious edifice but also a refuge during times of conflict.

As the parish continued to expand, the original church became insufficient to accommodate the growing congregation. In the early 15th century, a larger Gothic church was constructed adjacent to the existing tower. This new structure was a significant improvement, and in 1424, the first chaplain was appointed to the parish.

The Construction of the Current Church

By the mid-18th century, the parish of Zonhoven had grown to 2,400 inhabitants, necessitating yet another expansion. In 1785, Abbot Augustina van Hamme and Pastor Libens agreed to build a new church, sharing the construction costs equally. The new church was to be built on the site of the existing one, with the well-preserved tower remaining intact.

The construction faced several challenges, including the marshy ground, which required the foundation to be supported by 700 oak trunks brought in from Bokrijk. Despite these difficulties, the new church, designed in a classicist style, was completed by Christmas 1788, though it was not fully finished at that time. The final touches, including a roof rider at the request of the parishioners, were added later.

Architectural Features of Sint-Quintinuskerk

Sint-Quintinuskerk is a classicist basilica with a three-aisled nave consisting of seven bays. The choir features a nearly semicircular apse, and the nave is supported by twelve Tuscan columns, symbolizing the twelve apostles. The church measures 39 meters in length and 21 meters in width, with the choir extending 11 meters in length and 10 meters in width.

The interior of the church is adorned with significant works of art. The three large stucco works in the choir and side aisles, depicting the Holy Trinity, the Ascension of Christ, and the Assumption of Mary, were created by the Liège artist André-Martin Vivroux. The walls are decorated with fourteen polychrome Stations of the Cross by Aloïs De Beule, each accompanied by a medallion representing an apostle. In the choir, medallions of the four evangelists are displayed.

The church houses three altars: the main altar in Louis XV style, the left side altar dedicated to Saint Eligius, and the right side altar dedicated to Saint Anne. The high facade features the coat of arms of Abbot Augustina van Hamme and a statue of Saint Quintinus in a round-arched niche.

The Robustelly Organ

One of the church's most prized possessions is the Robustelly organ, originally built in 1664 by Pascal Limbourg using materials from the organ of the Utrecht Janskerk. The organ was completely rebuilt by Robustelly between 1761 and 1763, who also crafted the organ case. With 2,446 pipes and 40 registers, it is the second-largest organ in the province. The organ, along with the case, is designed in French Rococo style and was relocated to Zonhoven from the Val-Saint-Lambert Abbey in 1820.

The Tower

The early Gothic tower, dating from the late 13th or early 14th century, remains a prominent feature of the church. Standing 31 meters tall, it is slightly shorter than the main church building. The tower's thick walls and square design reflect its dual purpose as a place of worship and a fortress. The base of the tower houses a Romanesque baptismal font from the 12th century, a gift from the parish of Hasselt. The tower also contains three historic bells: the Mary bell from 1443, the Saint Quintinus bell from 1552, and another Mary bell from 1612.

Visiting Sint-Quintinuskerk

A visit to Sint-Quintinuskerk is a journey through centuries of history and architectural evolution. The church, with its classicist design and Gothic tower, offers a unique blend of styles that reflect the rich heritage of Zonhoven. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, Sint-Quintinuskerk is a must-see destination in Belgium.