St. Rumbold's Cathedral

St. Rumbold's Cathedral is a Gothic church in Mechelen with an incomplete tower that rises prominently above the city. Its interior displays religious artworks from different periods, including paintings and an ornamental altar.

Construction began in 1200 as the church gradually developed over centuries in step with the city's growing importance. When Mechelen became an archbishopric seat in 1559, the building received cathedral status.

The name honors Saint Rumbold, an Irish missionary whose veneration shaped the city's identity over time. Visitors can still see how religious artworks throughout the space reflect the deep connection between this saint and the community.

The tower can be accessed by climbing a narrow staircase that offers city views from above for those who reach the top. Allow extra time for this physical activity, as the steep climb requires effort and opening times may vary seasonally.

The original plans called for a tower over 160 meters tall that would have been the world's highest church structure. This ambitious goal was never completed, and the building still shows this unfinished story in its architecture today.

Location: Mechelen

Inception: 1200

Architects: Andries I Keldermans, Jan II Keldermans, Jean d'Oisy, Frans Baeckelmans, Antoon I Keldermans, Rombout II Keldermans

Architectural style: Brabantine Gothic, Gothic art

Part of: Belfries of Belgium and France

Website: https://kathedraalmechelen.be

GPS coordinates: 51.02889,4.47833

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:23