Saint-Géry
Rue de l'Eglise 1
7090 Braine-le-Comte
Church | XVI-XVIII | Gothic | Catholic Church
Map
Opening hours
01 January - 31 December
Mon 8.00 - 12.00 • 14.00 - 19.30
Tue 8.00 - 12.00 • 14.00 - 19.30
Wed 8.00 - 12.00 • 14.00 - 19.30
Thu 8.00 - 12.00 • 14.00 - 19.30
Fri 8.00 - 12.00 • 14.00 - 19.30
Sat 9.00 - 12.00 • 14.00 - 17.00
Sun 9.00 - 12.00
Religious offices
Sunday 11 am
Description
This church is part of the important patrimony of the town. It is Gothic and is distinguished by its large grey tower.
Inside several items of architecture, sculpture and painting are noteworthy whether they be vaults, bas relieves or polychrome statues. One such statue in massive oak of Saint Christopher is from the 15th century and stands 4.85 metres high.
The belfry has an interesting carillon of 48 bells.
KIKIRPA : Photo-library online
Photos
Remarkable elements
Saint Gaugericus
A legend attributes the origin of the original village to Saint Gaugericus. He lived in the VIth century, this holy man became bishop of Cambrai and fought against paganism throughout his life. As a convinced Christian, he founded several churches and developed himself as a benefactor for Cambrai, the capital of his diocese.
Medieval foundations
The church of Braine-le-Comte has existed since the 12th-XIIIth century. However, only the ground walls remain from the medieval period: on the outside, the lower part in slate along the length of the side aisles.
The tower
The large grey tower contains a carillon of 48 bells.
Virgin and child
She carries Christ on her right arm, while the latter turns the pages of the book she is holding in her left hand. The detail is not without reminding us of the Virgin and Child of the Collegiate Church of Soignies. They are both gothic and graceful, wearing dresses that follow the curves of their bodies. The clothes of the one of Braine-le-Comte are also more detailed and even richer in colours and motifs reflecting the know-how of medieval craftsmen.
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Statue of Saint Christopher
The statue dates back to the 15th century, as does its blue stone base, reminiscent of the design of the baptismal font: same period and same material. Impressive from the top of its 3.80 metres, this massive oak colossus carries Christ, in reference to the biblical episode when, without knowing it, it helped the divine child cross a tumultuous river. Over time, Saint Christopher became the protector of travellers and the dangers of the road. Moreover, a pilgrimage takes place every year at the end of August in Braine-le-Comte: vehicles of all kinds come to receive the blessing during a pilgrimage in his honour.
The park
The park next to the church is a small haven of peace in the middle of the city.
Nearby
Circuit
The Middle Ages in the Haute Senne region (from Horrues naar Steenkerque)
In Horrues, get to know Saint Martin, Saint Hubert and their emblematic animals. Follow in the footsteps of Baudouin IV the builder in Braine-le- Count. Finally, you will follow the Brainette valley to Steenkerque, the village of the mills.
The Middle Ages in the Haute Senne region (full circuit)
Proudly erected for centuries, churches are witnesses to local history. With castles and farms, they tell about an era and its customs. Are you more of a car person? Our fourth route offers you all the buildings in the program. A great way to learn everything about the region!
