Discover the Saint-Waltrude Collegiate church: a treasure of history and heritage
Dive into the fascinating history of the Saint-Waltrude Collegiate church, an architectural masterpiece that began in 1450 and is classified as exceptional Heritage of Wallonia. Its Latin cross plan, 29 chapels, and remarkable works, including the relics of Saint-Waltrude and the sculptures of Jacques du Brœucq, make it a unique place not to be missed. Admire the imperial stained glass windows, the statues of Saint Michael and Saint-Waltrude, and explore the Car d'Or, the emblem of the famous Doudou procession. A place full of mystery and beauty, where history comes to life at every corner.
About the activity
The construction of the Saint-Waltrude Collegiate church began in 1450 with the building of the choir and continued until 1621 with the nave. Its Latin cross-shaped architecture, which includes 29 chapels, makes this building an exceptional ensemble, classified as Heritage of Wallonia.
This church was owned by the canonesses of Saint-Waltrude, who dreamed of crowning their collegiate church with an imposing 190-meter tower. Although the first stones of this tower were laid in 1549, the project was never completed, leaving behind a fascinating mystery.
Not to be missed:
- The relics of Saint-Waltrude: one containing the body (the shrine), the other the head (the head relic).
- The works of Jacques du Brœucq (1505-1584), including statues and alabaster bas-reliefs visible in the choir and transept.
- The imperial stained glass windows: created in 1510/1511 by a Mons master glazier.
- The sculptures: notably the white stone statues of Saint Michael slaying the demon (15th century) and Sainte-Waudru (16th century).
- The Golden Coach: a painted and gilded wooden vehicle in Louis XVI style (1780/1781), used during the annual Trinity procession (Doudou).
- The Treasure of the Collegiate church.
