Wondering how a climbing wall and a house of worship coexist? That is the surprising story of the \u00c9glise Saint-Antoine de Padoue. This church stands in the municipality of Vorst in Brussels. It is also known as the Sint-Antonius van Paduakerk.
Dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, its history is quite unique. The Sint-Antonius van Paduakerk began with the urbanization of Brussels in 1897. This led to the creation of the Saint-Antonius-van-Paduaparochie. An existing Antonius chapel in Dudenpark influenced the choice of dedication. This chapel had a yearly procession to bless livestock since the mid-19th century.
The municipality of Vorst supported the church. They made it the focal point of a newly developed neighborhood. Landmeter Philippe Cattoir designed the square and surrounding streets in 1899. The design of the church itself was entrusted to engineer Henry Vaes and architect Paul Saintenoy in 1902.
Their plans were ambitious. They envisioned a neogothic masterpiece. Construction began in 1907. But funds ran short. Only the chancel and four bays of the nave were completed. A temporary west facade was placed facing the Sint-Antoniusvoorplein.
This incomplete state lasted for many years. Finally, from 1949 to 1953, a new phase of construction began. This was thanks to money from Cinzano. The neighboring drinks producer helped to finish the church. Instead of extending the existing church, architect De Bauwer added a lower structure. It was placed perpendicular to the nave. A gable marked the main entrance.
Fast forward to 2022. A portion of the church was designated for desacralization. The plan? To create a climbing zone. The high central nave offered space for a 4.5 meter bouldering wall, a 15 meter high climbing wall, and a 20 meter lead climbing wall. The chancel area would remain for religious services.
The church building is oriented. It features a relatively long entrance portal. Inside, there is a three-aisled nave with four bays in basilica style. It includes a transept and a straight closed chancel. The vaults are made of red brick.
Large cellars lie beneath the northwest part of the building. Cinzano used these for storage. The \u00c9glise Saint-Antoine de Padoue stands as a testament to changing times. It is a blend of faith and recreation. It welcomes both worshippers and climbers. This unique space reflects Brussels’ dynamic spirit.