Erected in 1889 the Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Anstaing stands as a testament to the faith of the Anstinois. Today we’ll uncover the story of this cherished chapel.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Anstaing replaced the Chapelle Christine. The Chapelle Christine had fallen into disrepair. It stood nearby. The Anstinois people funded the new chapel through donations.
Imagine the dedication of those villagers. They pooled their resources to create this sacred space. The Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Anstaing became a symbol of their collective spirit.
Anstaing itself is a commune with a rich past. It lies in the Nord department of the Hauts-de-France region. Anstaing is part of the European Metropolis of Lille. The town sits on the edge of Pévèle in Roman Flanders. It is about 13.5 kilometers southeast of Lille.
In the 15th century Anstaing was part of Ascq. An old castle built by the Counts of Flanders once stood here.
The church of Saint-Laurent d’Anstaing also holds treasures. It features a 15th-century bas-relief. A funerary slab marks the grave of Brisse Leroi. He was a priest who died in 1300. The slab depicts Saint Laurent presenting Leroi to the Virgin Mary. This slab has been classified as a historical monument since 1922. The church also houses a 17th-century silver reliquary. It is adorned with the arms of the d’Oignies family. This reliquary has been classified as a historical monument since 1933.
Anstaing boasts several other chapels. There is the Chapelle Saint-Laurent. The Chapelle des seigneurs ou du Plantis is decorated with the arms of J.C.M.A. Le Maistre and his wife Charlotte Jacops. A Chapelle à la Vierge also exists. You can also find an anonymous chapel on Rue Paul Lafargue. A private chapel sits on the Patsoort estate.
The Chapelle Saint-Laurent surrounds a spring. Legend says Saint Piat of Seclin miraculously opened it. The water is said to heal burns and skin diseases. A nine-day pilgrimage happens every August.
As you stand before the Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Anstaing consider its history. Think of the faith that built it. Remember the community that cherishes it. This small chapel is a window into the soul of Anstaing. It is a reminder of the enduring power of faith and community.