Peeking out from behind the surrounding brick buildings the bell tower signals we have arrived at u00c9glise Notre-Dame du Blankendelle. This modern church reflects significant changes in the Catholic Church. The Second Vatican Council sought to modernize the church. It aimed to attract new followers. Religious architecture shifted. Welcoming spaces became more important than grandeur.
u00c9glise Notre-Dame du Blankendelle exemplifies this shift. Consecrated in 1970 the church’s design comes from architects Albert Debaeke and Pierre Pinsard. They divided the church into two sections. One section features ochre brick. The other is a cubic recessed structure. Brick buildings extend from either side forming a U shape. They create a small courtyard. A reinforced concrete bell tower stands prominently. It marks the religious purpose.
Inside u00c9glise Notre-Dame du Blankendelle natural light is key. It helps create a sacred atmosphere. Square concrete shafts border the ambulatory. Translucent glass friezes run around the space. One highlights the ceiling. It makes it appear suspended. An overhead skylight illuminates the altar. This emphasizes its spiritual character. The architects used authentic materials. Brick concrete and blue limestone remain bare. The construction system is visible.
The interior design reflects post Vatican II reforms. The congregation gathers in a circular space. In 1981 Patrick Collon built the organ in the choir. The church acquired legal protection on August 19 2024. u00c9glise Notre-Dame du Blankedelle shows Brutalist architectural style.
The church’s history goes back to the mid 20th century. A third parish church became necessary in Auderghem. The area was rapidly urbanizing. The Avenue des Hu00e9ros was created in 1955. Plans for a place of worship started in 1958. This was for the new parish of Notre Dame du Blankedelle. Henri Lacoste a renowned architect presented a design. It was not chosen. Albert Debaeke and Pierre Pinsard’s proposal received support. Construction began. Cardinal Lu00e9on-Joseph Suenens consecrated the church.
u00c9glise Notre-Dame du Blankedelle is a square quadrilateral. It is surrounded by a covered gallery on three sides. This gallery forms the narthex. A band of glass runs around the building beneath the flat roof. This lets light into the building. A cubic skylight above the sanctuary illuminates the altar. The purely ornamental tower stands separate from the building. It acts like an obelisk.
The church contains a classic organ. It was made in Brussels by Patrick Collon in 1981. u00c9glise Notre-Dame du Blankedelle stands as a testament to architectural and religious change. Its design emphasizes community and light.