Church of St. James on Coudenberg, Catholic garrison church in Royal Quarter, Brussels
Church of St. James on Coudenberg is a Catholic worship building on Place Royale featuring a neoclassical brick facade with six Corinthian columns and a triangular pediment. The interior contains white marble altars, relief carvings with Christian subjects, and a historic organ installed in 1844.
This building was constructed in the late 18th century as a replacement for an earlier place of worship on the same site. The church played a central role in key moments of Belgian independence and royal history.
The name refers to the former Coudenberg Palace that once occupied this location. Visitors can sense the connection to the royal history of the neighborhood through the simple white interior design.
The building sits centrally on Place Royale and is easily reached on foot from downtown Brussels. Access for visitors is regular, but checking exact visiting hours beforehand is recommended.
This place functioned as both a parish church and a garrison church, serving the Belgian Armed Forces. Military and royal ceremonies continue to take place there today, giving it a special role in Belgian religious and state life.
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