Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk is a Neo-Romanesque church building in Sint-Niklaas featuring a 50-meter tower crowned with a golden statue of Mary. The tower rises prominently above the town and serves as a visible landmark.

Construction began in 1841 under architect Louis Roelandt, marking a turning point in the city's religious architecture. The project shaped Sint-Niklaas' spiritual identity during the 19th century.

The interior showcases neo-Byzantine wall paintings by Godfried Guffens depicting scenes from Mary's life and Christ's glorification. These decorations tell religious stories through images that cover the church walls.

The church is located at Onze Lieve Vrouwplein in the town center and is easy to reach on foot. The building is undergoing restoration work, so check ahead about visiting possibilities.

Since 2014, peregrine falcons have made the church tower their nesting site and breed there regularly. This unusual occupation by birds of prey is monitored through webcams, making the structure interesting for birdwatchers.

Location: Sint-Niklaas

Inception: 1841

Architects: Louis Roelandt

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

GPS coordinates: 51.16528,4.13778

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:43