Overview:

St. Bavon's Church (Sint-Baafskathedraal) is an iconic gothic church in the heart of Haarlem, Belgium. The church stands on a site which has been home to a church since the 11th century, though the current building dates from the late 14th through mid-16th centuries. It is considered one of the most important historic monuments of the Flemish-Brabant province and is a major part of Haarlem's skyline. The church is an impressive example of Northern European gothic style, with intricate carving, a spectacularly beautiful stained glass window, and a soaring spire. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Belgium
Prominent Features:

1. Gothic architecture: St. Bavon's Church in Haarlem is an example of Gothic architecture with its pointed windows and tall tower, constructed in several phases. 2. 13th-century stained glass windows: The church contains 13th-century stained glass windows, which depict various biblical stories. 3. Historic organ: A historic two-manual organ, built in 1718, is housed in the church. 4. Cloister garden: A cloister garden sits behind the church, featuring plants and flowers. 5. Decorative sculptures: The exterior of the church is adorned with decorative sculptures and stone carvings. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belgium.

History:

St. Bavon’s Church (St. Bavokerk) is a Roman Catholic church in Haarlem, Belgium, built between the 12th and 15th centuries. The church was initially designed in the Romanesque style and later expanded in the Gothic period. It is famous for the series of 14th-century Brabantine Wall Paintings that adorns its walls. Constructed in honor of Saint Bavon, a 7th-century missionary monk, this church has a rich and varied history that is both fascinating and inspirational. Founded in the 7th century, St. Bavon's Church was originally a Romanesque aisled basilica, or a single nave. It was rebuilt in the Gothic style in the early 14th century, during the period of Brabantine Gothic architecture in the Low Countries. This period saw the addition of two side-aisles and two transepts, as well as the famous stained glass Rose Window in the south transept. In the 14th century, Brabantine paintings were added to the walls of St. Bavon's Church. These paintings depict the life story of St. Bavon and were likely inspired by The Golden Legend, a text of medieval literature which compiled stories of the lives of Christian saints. These paintings are some of the most important in the entire low Countries. From the late 15th and early 16th centuries, the church's tower was raised to its current height and the medieval choir was replaced by a Gothic choir. During the Reformation period of the 16th century, the church underwent a period of iconoclasm when most of its religious art was defaced or destroyed. Despite this, the majority of the Brabantine Wall Paintings were spared and remain the main attraction in St. Bavon's Church. From the 17th century to the present day, the church has been largely unaltered and stands as one of Haarlem's major attractions. In 1951, the church and its grounds were listed as a protected monument. St. Bavon's Church continues to offer weekly services as well as occasional concerts. St Bavon's remains an important part of Haarlem's rich history and culture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belgium with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. St. Bavon's Church is the oldest church in Haarlem and was built between 1260 and 1280. 2. The church was initially dedicated to St. Bavon in 1282 and later changed to St. John the Baptist in 1804. 3. The original choir and side chapels of the church have been lost due to time and neglect. 4. St. Bavon’s Church was designed in the Gothic style architecture and features magnificent vaulted arches. 5. The interior of St. Bavon’s Church is largely decorated with stained glass, paintings, and sculptures. 6.The distinctive tower of the church stands 91 metres high and offers panoramic views of the city. 7. The church is home to the oldest working clock in the Netherlands, which was built in 1493. 8. The organ within St. Bavon’s Church was built in 1617 and is one of the oldest organs still in use in the world. 9. Every Saturday, a climb of the tower is offered to visitors where they can admire breath-taking views of Haarlem and the surrounding area. 10. The building of St. Bavon's Church is one of the oldest examples of brick architecture in the Netherlands. One of the historical monuments of Belgium, it tells the story of a bygone era