Saint Catherine Catholic Church stands on Place Sainte-Catherine, on the site of a former basin in Brussels’s old port. Built between 1854 and 1874, the church combines Gothic inspiration with Baroque and Renaissance details. Inside, look for the 14th-century Black Madonna, a Flemish pulpit, sculpted tombs and stained glass that colors the interior on sunny days. The older Baroque bell tower remains beside the 19th-century building. The church is still used for Catholic services, and the medieval Black Tower is just behind it.
Built on Brussels’s old port
The present church was built between 1854 and 1874 on the site of the Sainte-Catherine basin, part of the old Port of Brussels. An earlier church stood here from the 15th century, but it had become too small. The basin was filled in during the 19th century, and the new church took its place.
Architect Joseph Poelaert designed the building. Its Gothic inspiration sits alongside Baroque and Renaissance elements, reflecting the changing architectural tastes during the long construction period. Poelaert also designed Brussels’ Palace of Justice. The church was designated a historic monument in 1981.
The building’s survival was not assured. Demolition was considered in the 1950s to make way for an open-air car park, and again in 2011, when a covered-market project was proposed. It remains a functioning Catholic parish church, with Masses and special liturgies.
The church’s older details
Beside the 19th-century church stands a Baroque bell tower from an earlier church, added in 1629. The contrast makes it possible to see different periods of the site’s history together.
Inside, the 14th-century Black Madonna is a central historic object. During iconoclastic times, the statue was thrown into the River Senne and later recovered. The church also contains a Flemish pulpit and tombs carved by Belgian sculptor Gilles-Lambert Godecharle.
Stained-glass windows bring color into the interior. On sunny days, the light through the glass creates particularly vivid scenes for photography. Take photographs with care when services are taking place, and give worshippers space.
The Black Tower and the former port
The Black Tower, or Tour Noire, is just behind the church. It is a surviving section of Brussels’s 13th-century city walls and fortifications, set among much newer buildings. It makes a short historical addition to a visit to the church.
The surrounding street names recall the area’s maritime past. Quai aux Briques and Quai au Bois à Brûler are linked to the former port basins and the city’s trade routes. The church is also near Sainte-Catherine metro station, served by lines 1 and 5.
At Christmas, a market gathers around Sainte-Catherine Church and the Black Tower. Stalls include Belgian food as well as items such as churros, smoked Finnish salmon and French Champagne.
FAQ
Is entry to Saint Catherine Church free?
Entry is generally free.
What can you see inside Saint Catherine Church?
Look for the 14th-century Black Madonna, the Flemish pulpit, tombs carved by Gilles-Lambert Godecharle and stained-glass windows.
How do you get to Saint Catherine Church by metro?
Sainte-Catherine station, served by metro lines 1 and 5, is nearby.
Is photography allowed inside Saint Catherine Church?
Photography is generally allowed. Be considerate during Mass and other services.
