Basilica of Our Lady of Bon-Secours, Minor basilica in Bon-Secours, Belgium.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Bon-Secours is a religious building with an octagonal floor plan that combines Gothic Revival elements with Byzantine influences throughout its design. The structure sits prominently above the surrounding landscape and forms a striking focal point in the flat plains.
The site originated in the 16th century when believers began venerating the Virgin Mary at an oak tree, leading to construction of the current structure in 1892. The building emerged from this long-standing veneration tradition.
The basilica remains a pilgrimage destination where visitors come to honor a statue of the Virgin Mary carved from the original sacred oak tree. This tradition connects believers across generations to a place of veneration and prayer.
The basilica sits at the highest point of the plains and is easy to spot from the landscape due to its prominent location. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the views from this elevated position.
The building was designed by architect Frans Baeckelmans and combines an unusual octagonal layout with Gothic Revival forms in a distinctive way. This rare combination makes the structure particularly notable in the regional architectural landscape.
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