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.
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.
the interior is as stunning as its exterior.
tnx for the info,
i would love to see that unesco church when i have the chance to visit belgium someday.
The Jacquemart must be interesting to watch. Do people line up as they do at Salarjung
The design is gorgeous…and that golden lady is very attractive…
Splendid images of the church ! Loved the golden jacquemart ringing the bell !
Wow, absolutely gorgeous!
Please come and see the Sky View at a football field. Have a great weekend!
Indrani, I feel like I can travel the world by reading your blogs. What a lovely church and I love the statue. Great shots, thanks for sharing.
Indrani, I feel like I can travel the world by reading your blogs. What a lovely church and I love the statue. Great shots, thanks for sharing.
Wow, the golden statue is impressive and to think it moves! I love that third shot. Looks like a church within a church.
wow…love this place
Beautiful shots of the church and lovely sky.
yet another lovely place and so much information… wow…, the 2nd image with the gold statue is wow..
Another great tour!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
Nice pictures, a beautiful cathedral.
Leuven is een prachtige stad. Mooie foto van een schitterend bouwwerk.
Wondrous!
Friendly Aloha from Waikiki
Comfort Spiral
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Wow – what an architectural wonder!
Wow! Wonderful structures and a beautiful way to capture them!
Modern and "in progress" go hand-in-hand. What a place.
very impressive!
Lovely blue skies make a perfect backdrop for such an incredibly beautiful church! Interesting history and I'm always glad that you add that to your posts! I do love readinglearning about these beautiful places! Hope you have a lovely weekend, Indrani!
Sylvia