Did you know the magnificent National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Brussels wasn’t always as grand as it is today? This breathtaking structure is the largest church in Belgium. It is also the fourteenth largest church by area in the world. Standing before it you can feel its sheer size. It’s a testament to faith perseverance and architectural ambition.
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. It’s also inspired by neo-Byzantine styles. King Leopold II originally envisioned a Belgian Pantheon here. A monument to great Belgians. His plans changed however. After visiting the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Paris he decided to build a pilgrimage church. A national sanctuary dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Construction began in 1905. King Leopold II laid the first stone himself. It was meant to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence. However World War I and World War II significantly interrupted the project. The initial neo-Gothic design by Pierre Langerock was abandoned. The final Art Deco design which you see today was completed only in 1970. It involved the architects Albert Van Huffel and Paul Rome.
The Basilica’s exterior is a stunning blend of reinforced concrete terracotta layering and bricks. The soaring green copper dome stands tall at 89 meters. It dominates the northwestern Brussels skyline. The two slender towers flanking the main entrance reach 65 meters high. They’re topped with smaller domes. The main entrance features a bas-relief depicting Christ the Merciful. Four evangelist statues by Harry Elstrøm adorn the pillars.
Inside the basilica you’ll find an impressive collection of artwork. This includes sculptures paintings and stained-glass windows by renowned artists. There are two organs a modern one and a classical one. The basilica also has a capacity of 3500 people. It even hosts conferences and exhibitions.
The basilica’s dome offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Brussels. You can reach the platform by stairs or by lift. This magnificent structure more than a church is a symbol of Belgian resilience faith and architectural prowess. It is a must-see landmark during any visit to Brussels.