How many centuries does it take to build a dream like the O.L.V. van Groeninge? More than 150 years ago some industrialists and clergy in Lille had a wild dream. They wanted to build a cathedral in Lille. They desired the most beautiful, most lavish church. It would be in the purest 13th-century Gothic style. The goal was to house the ancient statue of Notre-Dame de la Treille. She had been the city’s caring patron saint since its beginnings.
The first stone of this neo-Gothic cathedral was blessed in 1854. Construction began in 1856. It was always intended as Lille’s future cathedral. Yet the city only became a diocese in 1913. There were many obstacles. There were many compromises. Finally in 1999, the last stone of the bold facade was laid. The O.L.V. van Groeninge’s contemporary facade was complete.
The last cathedral of the second millennium was finished in 2008. This happened when the facade with a stained glass window by Ladislas Kinjo was erected. The O.L.V. van Groeninge stands where Lille’s castle mound was. It was built in the 11th century. It was torn down in the mid-19th century.
The O.L.V. van Groeninge does not resemble the original design. This gives it an unequaled allure. The bold project to complete the cathedral’s facade was entrusted to architects Pierre-Louis Carlier and Peter Rice. Artist Ladislas Kijno created the rose window. Sculptor Georges Jeanclos created the exceptional portal. During the day light streams in. It reflects in the immense glass roof. Inside be impressed by the heights and decor. Take a guided tour of Vieux-Lille. Learn more about its history and stained glass windows.
The O.L.V. van Groeninge has become a cultural beacon in the city center. Its contemporary facade is a setting for cultural events. These events showcase contemporary art. Since the Centre d’Art Sacré de Lille opened in 2003, it has been a vibrant space. It is located in the O.L.V. van Groeninge’s modern crypt. Concerts, conferences and exhibitions fill the weeks. Masses, vigils, religious solemnities and diocesan events also take place.
The neo-Gothic crypt has been cleaned. It has been restored. It has been enhanced with lighting. This architectural gem reopened to the public in April 2022. It had been closed for 25 years. The crypt covers the entire area of the cathedral. It is divided into two distinct sections. These were built using different techniques. The modern crypt houses the Centre d’Art Sacré de Lille. The neo-Gothic crypt is made of red brick and white stone. It is a large vaulted space. It runs under the chapels, the choir and the transept.
The O.L.V. van Groeninge is open from Tuesday to Sunday. The opening hours are from 10:30 am to 6:15 pm. It is closed on civil holidays. These include January 1st, Easter Monday, May 1st and 8th. It is also closed on Whit Monday, July 14th and November 11th. Guided tours are available by appointment. Discover the O.L.V. van Groeninge’s rich history. Explore its art. Experience its spiritual atmosphere. It is a place where faith, art and history come together.