Brussels is one of the oldest cities in the world. Historical monuments, palaces and museums mesmerize everyone with their architectural wonders and grandeur, as well as cathedrals and churches. The city is blessed with many magnificent churches and each of them reflects the grandeur and heritage of the city’s glorious past. Some are architecturally amazing while others have a positive ambiance that ensures complete rejuvenation of mind and soul. Check out the list of the most popular churches in Brussels, which should definitely be in your holiday plans.
11 majestic churches in Brussels
Understanding royal history and medieval glory; Visit these beautiful churches in Brussels. Their beauty, structure, architecture and tranquility will leave everyone in awe.
- Basilica of the Sacred Heart
- Holy Trinity Brussels Anglican Church
- St Giles Church
- Church of Notre Dame du Finisterre
- Church of Our Blessed Lady of Sablon
- Church of Our Lady of Lichen
- Church of St. Mary Magdalene
- St. Nicholas Church
- St. Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Parish
- Saint-Jean-and-Étienne-aux-Minimes Church
- Cathedral of Saints Archangels Michael and Gabriel
1. Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of the Basilica du Sacré-Coeur in Paris, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the largest church in Brussels and the 5th largest church in the world. The 90-meter-high church was built in the magnificent Art Deco style and is considered one of the architectural masterpieces of Brussels, Belgium. Although its foundation stone was laid in 1905, its construction was completed in 1971 due to the interruptions of World War I and World War II. The emerald green dome stands as a beautiful contrast to the red terracotta stone body of the church, making it one of the most beautiful churches in Brussels. In addition, the observation deck of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart offers the best panoramic view of the city.
Place: 1083 Brussels, Belgium
Must read: The 10 Best Things to Do in Brussels to Start a Historical Trip
2. Holy Trinity Brussels Anglican Church
image Source
Holy Trinity Brussels Anglican Church is a part of the prestigious diocese in Europe of the Church of England and is one of the most popular churches in Brussels. It was circumscribed by the convergence of Christ Church and the Church of the Resurrection in 1958. The architectural style of the church reflects amazing eclecticism and its interior artwork, sculptures and frescoes leave everyone in awe. Offering common prayer, holy service, common worship and communion on a daily basis, Holy Trinity Brussels Anglican Church has gained immense popularity among the locals, making it one of the best. English Church in Brussels,
Place: Rue Capitaine Crespel 29, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
3. St. Giles Church
As one of the most beautiful churches in Brussels, the Eglise Saint Gilles attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year. Built in the 19th century, this church boasts of beautiful Baroque style architecture. In addition to the prayer and sacred service rooms, the Eglise Saint Gilles also houses a museum displaying paintings and sculptures. Located right opposite St. Giles Square, this church is easily accessible by public transport from any part of the city.
Place: 1060 Saint-Gilles, Belgium
Read suggestions: 10 Best Romantic Places in Brussels to Add More Excitement to Your Holidays
4. Church of Notre Dame du Finisterre
Built in the 18th century, it is one of the best Gothic churches in Brussels. Featuring white marble statues, large statues and amazing Baroque architecture, the Notre Dame du Finisterre Church is one of the few Brussels churches where people come to worship the Gothic Virgin, Notre-Dame du Bon Success.
The church is located in the busy area of Rue Neuve and is surrounded by restaurants, pubs and shops, but the peace and quiet inside the church is overwhelming and calming.
Place: Rue Neuve 76, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
5. Church of Our Blessed Lady of Sablon
The Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon is known for its artistic interior, wooden pulpit and stained glass windows. Located in the Upper Brussels area, this church was built in the 14th century and has two Baroque chapels, a unique aspect that makes it one of the most Famous churches in Brussels, The exterior structure, which displays the typical Brabantine Gothic style, is truly a work of art. The Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon is one of the properties owned by the pastoral unit of the Brussels Center and is counted as one of the oldest Brussels churches.
Place: Rue des Sablons, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Read suggestions: These 10 best craft-beer bars in Brussels will leave you wanting more
6. Church of Our Lady of Lichen
It is a neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church built in memory of Queen Louise-Marie, wife of King Leopold I. The renowned architect Joseph Poelaert built the church right next to the tomb of the queen, who passed away in 1850.
Located right next to Laeken Castle and being one of the Catholic churches in Brussels, it is one of the popular tourist attractions in Brussels.
Place: Parvis Notre Dame, 1020 Brussels, Belgium
Read suggestions: The 14 best restaurants in Brussels that offer a glimpse of the city’s vibrant food scene!
7. Church of St. Mary Magdalene
The Eglise Sainte Marie-Madeleine is one of the oldest churches in Brussels, located very close to the Grand Palace. The squat silhouette and its Baroque dome are the main attractions of this place. The beautiful fresco paintings on the walls and ceiling make it amazing. The church was closed for security reasons in 1989 and reopened as an exhibition space in 1991.
Place: 1 Magdalenesteenweg Brussels Brussels, 1000, Belgium
8. St. Nicholas Church
If we are talking about the best churches in Brussels, it is necessary to make a special mention of the Church of St. Nicholas. This small and beautiful 1000 year old church is located behind the Bourse in Brussels. Although much of the structure was destroyed by French bombing, the beautiful painting of The Virgin and Child by Rubens and the Vladimir Icon by an artist from Constantinople are iconic treasures here.
Place: 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Read suggestions: Shopping in Belgium: ten places to shop for everything from great chocolate to cute clothes
9. St. Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Parish
Parois Orthodoxe Romaine Saint Nicolas is one of the few Roman Orthodox churches in Brussels, Belgium. Although the church looks simple and un-decorated in both external structure and internal decoration; But it is the peace of this place that attracts tourists here to refresh their mind and soul.
Place: Rue des Palais 181-183, 1030 Brussels, Belgium
10. Saint-Jean-and-Étienne-aux-Minimes Church
Built in the 18th century, the church of the Eglise des Minimes shows a fine blend of Baroque and Neo-Classicism architectural patterns. Paintings by Flemish artists, vintage organ and white marble structures make this place beautiful and luxurious. Popularly known as the Minims Church, the venue attracts tourists, photographers and historians and is considered one of the most popular concert venues in Brussels.
Place: Rue des Minims 62, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
11. Cathedral of Saints Archangels Michael and Gabriel
The last place on our list is one of the Christian churches in Brussels. The Cathedral Saint-Archange Michel et Gabriel is located adjacent to the Grand Palace and was constructed in 1874. Come here to admire the amazingly beautiful pink windows, the Royal Doors, the Way of the Cross, Christ and the Forerunners, the Holy Virgin Mary and the Archangels.
Place: Avenue de Stalingrad 34, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
read ahead: 10 beaches in Belgium you must visit on your trip
These beautiful churches of Brussels add to the aura and charm of the old city as they are a reflection of its rich heritage and history. So, keep this list handy while planning your itinerary for your trip to Brussels. Know of another fascinating church to add to this list of churches in Brussels? Share the name in the comments below.
Disclaimer: TourTravelHotels claims no credit for images displayed on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyright to its respected owners. We try to link to the original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TourTravelHotels, please Contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in giving due credit to the original author, artist or photographer.
please pay attention: Any information published by TourTravelHotels in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice of any kind, and one should not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of one’s choice.
FAQs about churches in Brussels
How many churches are there in Brussels?
There are 107 Catholic parishes in the Brussels Capital Region. Apart from the capital area, there are many churches in other areas also.
What are some popular churches in Brussels?
Some of the popular churches in Brussels are Holy Trinity Brussels Anglican Church, Eglise Saint Gilles, Basilica of the Sacred Heart and St. Nicholas Church.
Which is the largest church in Brussels?
You can find many of the oldest and largest churches in Brussels. But, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the largest church in Brussels which belongs to the Roman community.
Which is the oldest church in Brussels?
St. Nicholas Church is the oldest church located in Brussels. It is a small and beautiful church which is about 1000 years old.
What is the time to visit churches in Brussels?
Some churches open in two parts. But, most of the churches open at 10 am and close at 5 pm. For example, the Cathedral of Our Lady opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm and the Basilica of the Holy Blood opens at 9.30 am and closes at 5 pm.
Where is the Lady of the Sablon Church located?
Our Lady of the Sablon Church is one of the most popular churches in Brussels located in the upper area of Brussels. The exact location of this church is Rue des Sablons, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.
Are there any Gothic churches in Brussels?
Most countries have at least one church that is labeled as a Gothic church. It’s the same with Brussels. The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is the only popular Gothic church located in Brussels.
Are you looking to book an international holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TourTravelHotels with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.