Saint-Materne Basilica, Gothic basilica in Walcourt, Belgium.
The Saint-Materne Basilica sits on a rocky outcrop with a 64-meter tower and four small turrets that rise prominently above the valley. The building displays Gothic architecture and was rebuilt and expanded multiple times following major fires.
The original Romanesque building was consecrated in 1026 by the Bishop of Liege and stood at this location in Wallonia. After several fires, major reconstruction work from the 13th to 16th centuries shaped the structure into its current form.
The wooden Madonna statue from the early medieval period represents a form of devotion to Mary that visitors can still experience in the basilica today. Pilgrims and guests come to pray before this ancient work, which holds deep meaning for many people.
Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the climb to the basilica is steep and can be slippery in places. Guided tours are available in several languages, and you can also explore the church on your own.
The choir stalls from the early 16th century contain carved misericords depicting scenes from daily life, often shown with humor and satire. These hidden details reveal how people of that time worked and lived through witty observation.
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