St. Rumbold's Cathedral
Vlaamse Gewest
St. Rumbold's Cathedral, located in Mechelen, Belgium, is the metropolitan church of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels and a symbol of Belgian religious heritage. Dedicated to the Irish missionary Saint Rumbold, the cathedral's construction began in the 13th century as a three-aisled cruciform church. It features early Brabantine Gothic architecture, notably its soaring 97-meter tower, which houses two renowned carillons and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Belfries of Belgium and France. The interior boasts a richly decorated Gothic nave with apostle statues on the columns and a remarkable Baroque oak pulpit carved by Michiel van der Voort, depicting vivid biblical scenes. The choir area contains a high altar sculpted by Lucas Faydherbe and several significant tomb monuments of archbishops, alongside paintings by masters such as Anthony van Dyck, Abraham Janssens, Gaspar de Crayer, and Michiel Coxie. The cathedral endured damage during the religious wars and World War I but remains a vital cultural and architectural monument in Belgium.
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Tip: Visit the cathedral during weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience. Booking guided tours or tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for climbing the tower. Discounts are often available for seniors, students, and groups. Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and special events such as carillon concerts.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's tower is nearly 97 meters tall and contains two historic carillons.
- •It is part of the Belfries of Belgium and France UNESCO World Heritage listing.
- •The Baroque pulpit is carved with intricate biblical scenes and is considered a masterpiece of Michiel van der Voort.
- •During the English Fury of 1580, much of the cathedral's interior was destroyed, but the relics of Saint Rumbold were recovered and preserved by the local population.
- •The cathedral's choir ambulatory holds 33 heraldic shields of the Order of the Golden Fleece dating from 1491.
History
Construction of St.
Rumbold's Cathedral began in the 13th century, initially as a collegiate church, with the building consecrated in 1312.
In the 14th century, the choir was expanded with a ambulatory and chapels, and the tower construction commenced around this time.
The church was elevated to cathedral status in 1559 with the establishment of the Diocese of Mechelen.
The cathedral suffered losses during the 16th-century religious wars and was damaged by artillery bombardment in World War I.
A fire in 1972 caused further damage but the cathedral has since been restored.
Its architecture is a prime example of early Brabantine Gothic style, influencing other regional churches.
Place Guide
The Tower and Carillons14th century
The cathedral's iconic tower rises nearly 97 meters and houses two historic carillons. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of Mechelen and hear the famous bells.
Baroque Oak Pulpit1721-1723
Carved by Michiel van der Voort between 1721 and 1723, this pulpit is a remarkable example of Baroque sculpture depicting the conversion of Norbertus and biblical scenes, originally made for a Norbertine monastery.
High Altar and Choir Monuments1665
The high altar, sculpted by Lucas Faydherbe in 1665, and several tomb monuments of archbishops, including Andreas Creusen and Matthias Hovius, adorn the choir area, showcasing Baroque artistry.
Paintings by Renowned Artists1630 and others
The cathedral houses significant paintings, including 'Christ on the Cross' by Anthony van Dyck (1630), as well as works by Abraham Janssens, Gaspar de Crayer, and Michiel Coxie, enriching its artistic heritage.
Contact
Phone: 0470 06 34 54
