Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors, Leuven, Belgium

I usually try and visit churches of new places that I tour in European countries. In Leuven the location of St. Peter’s Church and Town Hall was at the same place, making it convenient to visit both in short span of time.

Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors Leuven

Oh! What a contrast between the exteriors of St. Peter’s Church and Leuven’s Town Hall! Check out my post: Leuven’s Town Hall.

Saint Peter’s Church of Leuven is one of the rare incomplete structures that made its way to the prestigious list of UNESCO World heritage sites. The towers planned for this church could never be completed. The old existing ones were damaged in fire. Construction was later abandoned due to lack of funds and instability in its foundations. And the central tower was abandoned at one third its initial height. These towers are mentioned on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as part of the Belfries of Belgium and France. Leuven thus figured in my itinerary.

Leuven was our first halt while we were on our road trip from Hasselt to Antwerp.

Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors Leuven

Jacquemart at St. Peter’s Church Leuven

Most interesting sight in Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors Leuven is the the golden jacquemart. This jacquemart (an animated, mechanized figure of a person, usually made from wood or metal. It strikes the hours on a bell with a hammer.) periodically rings a bell. It is near the clock on the gable of the southern transept, above the main southern entrance door. This is a 1998 addition to the facade. We were lucky to watch the figurine moving at the stroke of the eleventh hour that day.

Clock at Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors, Leuven

Clock at St. Peter’s Church Leuven Belgium Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors Leuven

Jacquemart at Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors, Leuven

Most interesting sight in Saint Peter’s Church Exteriors Leuven is the the golden jacquemart.

The original design preserved at southern end of the church.

This is the view from the Grote market at the east of the church. Notice the seven radiating chapels. Entrance to this church is free.

Saint Peter's Church Leuven Belgium

 

Ornate Exteriors of Leuven Town Hall Architecture, Belgium
Interior of Sint-Pieterskerk Leuven, Belgium

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