Overview:

Tournai Cathedral, or the Cathedral of Our Lady, is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Tournai, in Belgium. The cathedral is home to the Tournai Cathedral treasury, which is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque and Gothic art in the world. First built in the 12th century in the Romanesque style, it was largely expanded during the 13th century with Gothic additions. It is one of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in Europe and is also the oldest in both France and Belgium. The cathedral is often referred to as Notre-Dame de Tournai and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Today, the cathedral serves as a Roman Catholic parish church. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Belgium
Prominent Features:

1. Gothic Style: This cathedral is a notable example of Gothic architecture, noted for its lancet windows and soaring towers. 2. Three Towers: Another noteworthy feature of the cathedral is its three towers, one of which is even visible from the French border. 3. Intricate Decorative Facade: The cathedral’s intricate and detailed decorative façade makes it a stand out feature of the structure. 4. Interior: The interior of the cathedral is also quite impressive. There are multiple aisles with stained glass windows and murals of 15th and 16th century artwork. 5. Crypt: There is a crypt beneath the cathedral that also houses several important tombs. 6. Belfry: The cathedral also has a distinctive and impressive belfry. The tower was added in the 17th century and is known for its four bells. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belgium.

History:

Tournai Cathedral was built between the 12th and 15th centuries, and is one of Europe's most impressive Romanesque cathedrals. It is known for its distinctive blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, its five magnificent towers, and its massive domes. The cathedral is a major attraction in the city of Tournai, Belgium and its history stretches back to the 6th century. The first church on the site was founded in the 6th century by St. Eligius, and stood until the 11th century. In 1062, a new church was built to replace it, with the intention of creating a larger structure that could host the increasing number of pilgrims to the area. The new church was dedicated to the Virgin Mary in 1070, and bishops were installed in it from 1093. The foundation stone of the cathedral we see today was laid in 1145, and remarkable for its size and intricate design. It was built over 300 years and completed in 1466. The cathedral is composed of three constructed naves, two short choirs, several chapels and a large transept. The church has several distinctive features, including a triple-arched entry porch and a large rose window. Tournai Cathedral has been updated several times over the years, mainly to repair damage caused by wars and other disasters. In the 17th century, the cathedral was redecorated in Baroque style, and during the 19th century, the interior was redesigned again to create a neo-Gothic appearance. In 1999, the Cathedral was included on the UNESCO World Heritage list along with five other historic monuments in Tournai. Today, Tournai Cathedral is a major tourist attraction and an important cultural landmark in Belgium, drawing hundreds of visitors annually to appreciate its unique architectural style and rich history.

Visit one of the famous monuments of Belgium with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Tournai Cathedral is the oldest Gothic church in the world, built between 1112 and 1454. 2. Its five towers are an unique feature and make it one of Europe's most important monuments. 3. It was the birthplace of King Baldwin II of Jerusalem. 4. Some of the stained glass windows in the church date back to the 13th century. 5. The cathedral is listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, which includes monuments of historical and cultural significance. 6. The oldest bell in the tower of the cathedral dates back to 1305. 7. During the French Revolution, the cathedral was spared destruction by a group of brave women who stood guard outside the building. 8. The choir stalls inside the church were carved between 1468 and 1484, making them one of the world’s oldest. 9. The Cathedral of Tournai also houses one of the largest organs in Europe, with over 5,000 pipes. One of the historical monuments of Belgium, it tells the story of a bygone era