Saint Ursula

Kerknet

The neo-Gothic basilica with transept was built between 1908 and 1910. On its western side stands a Gothic tower in rubble and marlstone. The four lower levels date from the thirteenth and fourteenth century, while additional levels were added in 1910. The tower has a slate covered spire. The nave and choir are brick structures with gable roofs, and the lancet windows feature bright red brick frames.

The interior was recently restored. The church includes a nave, two aisles with six bays, a transept, a chancel with side choirs, and vestries on both sides. Pointed arches dominate the plastered interior. The arches separating nave and aisles are made of ordinary and glazed bricks and rest on stone pillars with foliage capitals.

Among the furnishings are a Calvary cross and part of a mid nineteenth century oak communion. The oak pulpit stands on a statue of Saint Ursula holding a cross and chalice. Two Louis XVI style confessionals (late eighteenth century) and a protected Clerinx organ are also present.

The statue of Saint Ursula dates from the seventeenth century. Legend says she was the daughter of a Christian king, married to a pagan prince. She fled with eleven thousand virgins, who were captured by the Huns. Ursula and her companions were killed by arrows, which is why she is often depicted holding them. She is the patron saint of young girls, schoolchildren and female teachers.

A pointed arched gateway leads to the former cemetery, where several tombstones date from the eighteenth century.

Sources :
Inventaris van het Bouwkundig Erfgoed
www.heiligen.net

KIKIRPA : Photo-library online

See the treasures of this church online at Erfgoedplus.be