Attraction
Grand-Place
Brussels' central market square, rebuilt after the 1695 bombardment, framed by the Gothic Town Hall and ornate guildhalls and listed by UNESCO in 1998.
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula
Brussels' Brabantine Gothic cathedral, built between the 13th and early 16th centuries, with twin 69-metre towers, Renaissance stained glass and a Baroque pulpit.
At a glance
- Type
- Gothic cathedral
- Area
- Treurenberg (City Centre), Brussels, Belgium
Good to know
- Free entry to the nave
- Stained glass
- Treasury
- Crypt
Why we recommend it
The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is the principal church of Brussels, dedicated to the city's two patron saints. A chapel probably stood on this hill as early as the 9th century, and a Romanesque church followed in the 11th century. The present Gothic building was begun with the choir, built between 1226 and 1276, and the main structure was completed just before 1519. The twin towers of the west front, each 69 metres high, were built between 1470 and 1485. The style is mostly Brabantine Gothic, with later Baroque additions.
Inside, the light-coloured stone and high nave give a sense of calm after the busy streets below. Look for the 16th-century stained glass, including the Last Judgement window of 1528 in the west façade, and the extraordinary carved oak pulpit made by Hendrik Frans Verbruggen in 1699, with Adam and Eve driven from Paradise at its base. Excavations under the choir uncovered remains of the Romanesque church, and the treasury is kept in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament of the Miracle. The towers also hold a carillon.
The cathedral is still a working church and the setting for national occasions, including royal weddings and state funerals; the wedding of Prince Philippe and Mathilde d'Udekem d'Acoz took place here in 1999. It suits anyone interested in architecture, history or a quiet pause during a day of sightseeing, and it is an easy visit for families. Dress respectfully, keep noise down and avoid wandering during services.
Allow 30 to 45 minutes for the nave and chapels, and longer if you visit the crypt or treasury, which may have separate access arrangements. The building is especially attractive in the late afternoon, when the low sun lights the west front. Check locally for times, because services and events can affect access.
The cathedral stands on the Treurenberg hill between the lower and upper town, a few minutes' walk from Brussels-Central station and from Parc metro station on lines 1 and 5. The Grand-Place is about ten minutes away, and the Royal Park and the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert are close, so it fits naturally into a walk between the old centre and the Royal Quarter.
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula FAQs
When was the cathedral built?
The Gothic choir dates from 1226 to 1276, the west towers from 1470 to 1485, and the main structure was completed just before 1519.
How tall are the towers?
The two towers of the west front are 69 metres high.
What should I look for inside?
The 1528 Last Judgement window, the carved Baroque pulpit by Hendrik Frans Verbruggen from 1699 and the treasury.
Have royal events taken place here?
Yes. It hosts royal weddings and state funerals, including the 1999 wedding of Prince Philippe and Mathilde.
How long should I allow?
About 30 to 45 minutes for the main church.
How do I get there?
It is a few minutes' walk from Brussels-Central station and from Parc metro station on lines 1 and 5.
Is there a dress code?
It is an active place of worship, so dress respectfully and keep quiet during services.
What is nearby?
The Grand-Place, the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert and the Royal Park are all within walking distance.