Sint-Gerlachuskerk

Sint-Gerlachuskerk is a Baroque church in Houthem with walls and ceilings completely covered in colorful frescoes. Religious stories and symbols are painted in fine detail throughout the interior space.

The current church was built starting in 1720 and finished in 1735. It replaced an older sanctuary on this site that had drawn pilgrims for centuries before.

This pilgrimage church draws visitors seeking spiritual connection and giving thanks through prayer. The veneration of Saint Gerlach remains active today, with worshippers lighting candles and leaving offerings as part of local devotion.

The church sits in a valley with good access from the town center. Visitors should know there are stairs to navigate and some interior areas are dimly lit, so a flashlight or phone light helps.

A grotto with water sits in the church crypt and is considered sacred by pilgrims who visit. This underground space has been part of devotional practice here for generations.

Location: Valkenburg aan de Geul

Inception: 18 century

Part of: complex Sint-Gerlachuskerk

Address: Onderstestraat 1

GPS coordinates: 50.87027,5.79802

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:02