From medieval squares to the grand buildings of the 19th century, discover the cathedrals, churches and basilica that tell the story of Brussels.
These buildings are places of worship and heritage sites. Services, building work and events may affect access; crypts, towers and panoramic viewpoints sometimes have separate visiting arrangements.
Antonio Sessa — UnsplashBegun in 1226, this Gothic cathedral tells the story of several centuries of Brabantine architecture. Its stained glass, Baroque pulpit and Romanesque remains invite you to explore Brussels’ religious history.
Place Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles
visit.brusselsBuilt from the 15th century onwards, the Sablon church is an outstanding example of late Gothic architecture. Large stained-glass windows and the Baroque chapels of the Tour et Tassis family enrich the visit.
Rue des Sablons, 1000 Bruxelles
Morburre — CC BY-SA 4.0 — Wikimedia CommonsIn the Marolles district, Notre-Dame de la Chapelle combines predominantly Gothic architecture with Romanesque elements. Its interior preserves numerous works of art, including Baroque pieces.
Place de la Chapelle, 1000 Bruxelles
Leonhard Niederwimmer — UnsplashBuilt between 1854 and 1873 to plans by Joseph Poelaert, then under the direction of Wynand Janssens, the church combines Gothic and Renaissance influences. The tower of the former church still stands nearby.
Place Sainte-Catherine 50, 1000 Bruxelles
visit.brusselsConstruction of this Baroque church began in 1657 and it was consecrated in 1676. It recalls the Grand Béguinage of Brussels: its monumental façade and rich furnishings bear witness to the history of this community of women.
Place du Béguinage, 1000 Bruxelles
Vasily Malygin / Unsplash · Unsplash LicenseThis monumental basilica is a major Art Deco work designed by Albert Van Huffel. You can extend your visit to its museums and panoramic view of Brussels, subject to the venue’s access arrangements.
Parvis de la Basilique 1, 1083 Bruxelles
visit.brusselsBuilt between 1845 and 1888, this Romanesque-Byzantine church stands along the Royal Route. Its octagonal plan and dome make it a distinctive architectural landmark in Schaerbeek.
Place de la Reine, 1030 Schaerbeek
Pierre Blaché / Unsplash · Unsplash LicenseDesigned by Joseph Poelaert, Notre-Dame de Laeken is a vast neo-Gothic building erected in memory of Queen Louise-Marie. The royal crypt, behind the choir, contains the tombs of members of the Belgian royal family.
Parvis Notre-Dame 17, 1020 Bruxelles
© Fred Romero / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0Overlooking place Royale, Saint-Jacques-sur-Coudenberg combines neoclassical architecture with a history linked to royal power. It is both a royal parish church and the cathedral of the Military Diocese.
Place Royale 6a, 1000 Bruxelles
© EmDee / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0Close to the Grand-Place, Saint-Nicolas retains the character of a medieval church woven into the surrounding houses. Its dedication recalls the history of Brussels’ merchants and markets.
Rue au Beurre, 1000 Bruxelles
