Abbaye de Saint-Jacques de Liège

Abbaye de Saint-Jacques de Liège is an abbey in central Liège, Belgium, with a church built in the Gothic style. The interior features a high vaulted nave, a Renaissance-designed entrance portal, and five elaborately decorated stained glass windows from the 16th century.

The abbey was founded in 1015 by Prince-Bishop Balderic II as a religious community. Over time it transformed into a collegiate church in the 18th century and eventually became a parish church serving the local population.

The medieval choir stalls feature unusual carvings showing devils, griffins, and scenes from the Roman de Renart tale. These details reveal how medieval craftsmen mixed religious spaces with playful and imaginative imagery.

The church is easily accessible from the pedestrian area in the city center. Visitors should note that religious services may be taking place, so it is wise to check ahead whether the building is open for visits.

The building once served as a secure repository for Liège's municipal documents and official privileges. It was the formal location where the city's mayors held their yearly oath-taking ceremony.