A chill wind whispers secrets through the ancient stones. This is the Chapelle de Marie la Misérable. Or as the locals know it the Kapel van Lenneke Mare.
Before you stands a Gothic Brabantine chapel a testament to faith and resilience. It dates back to the 14th century. This humble building holds a powerful legend. It’s a story woven into the very fabric of its walls. A story of Marie a young woman of remarkable spirit.
The legend of Marie la Misérable began in the early 14th century. She lived in the village of Woluwe-Saint-Pierre. Marie chose a life of seclusion. She rejected worldly desires to live as a recluse. One day a wealthy lord encountered Marie. He attempted to seduce her. Marie refused his advances. Infuriated he planted a valuable cup in her cell. He then accused her of theft.
He hoped to force her submission. Marie remained steadfast. The enraged lord went further. He falsely accused her of vagrancy and witchcraft. Marie was unjustly condemned to be buried alive. A sharpened stake was driven into her body.
Miracles occurred at the execution site. A pilgrimage grew. The chapel was built to honor her memory and to provide a place for pilgrims to come. The chapel itself is mentioned in a papal document from 1363. This document was issued by Pope Urban V. It granted indulgences to those who visited the chapel.
Inside you’ll find a remarkable triptych. It dates from 1609. The triptych depicts six episodes from Marie’s life. Art historians believe David Teniers the Elder painted it. There is also a very old wooden chest. It dates back to 1473. The chapel’s chancel balustrade and pulpit are baroque additions from the 17th century. One of the capitals supporting the arch separating the choir from the nave is still adorned with curly cabbage leaves a detail not often noticed by casual visitors.
In the 20th century the Marquis de la Boëssière-Thiennes donated the chapel to the Assumptionist Fathers. They still serve the chapel today. The chapel and its hermitage were classified as protected heritage in 1959. They were restored in 1972.
The story of Marie la Misérable inspired Michel de Ghelderode. He created a medieval mystery play in 1952. The play was his final work. It was performed in front of the Woluwe-Saint-Lambert church. Franz Hellens another Belgian writer also explored Marie’s life in his book Sainte-Marie de Woluwe la misérable.
As you stand before the Chapelle de Marie la Misérable remember Marie’s unwavering spirit. Remember the unjust suffering she endured. Let her story resonate within you as a testament to the enduring power of faith hope and resilience.