A symphony of angles greets you. This is the Sint-Jan de Doperkerk in Brussels. Its Art Deco design isn’t just pretty. It’s a testament to daring architecture. Architect Joseph Diongre dreamt it up in 1931. He completed it in just fifteen months.
The Sint-Jan de Doperkerk is one of only three concrete churches in Brussels. Its imposing facade is striking. Its octagonal bell tower soars 56 meters. This gives the church an unforgettable personality. Inside the Sint-Jan de Doperkerk is just as interesting. The nave features 23-meter-high parabolic arches. These are magnificent. Fernand Crickx designed the geometric stained-glass windows. They are truly remarkable.
The Sint-Jan de Doperkerk wasn’t always so modern. The original church dated back to the 9th century. It was dedicated to John the Baptist. Centuries of history unfolded within its walls. This includes a unique tradition. People suffering from epilepsy believed the church offered a cure. They would dance their way to the church on St. John’s Day. They believed this dance could heal them. This was not a local phenomenon. This same dance was performed in Echternach Dudelange and Prüm. A drawing by Pieter Bruegel the Elder depicted these dancers. His son painted it into a full painting.
The Sint-Jan de Doperkerk you see today replaced an older building. That older church was destroyed in 1578 during the religious turmoil of the Brussels Republic. The 1830s saw another church built on this site. That building was inadequate for the growing population. The current church is a product of a combination of factors. The need for a larger church met with the resources of the town. The construction was inexpensive due to the use of concrete. This made it possible for the town to fund the entire project themselves.
The Sint-Jan de Doperkerk stands as a symbol. It’s a symbol of innovation and resilience. Its concrete structure clad in white Brauvilliers stone is a marvel. It’s a stunning example of Art Deco design in a place where you’d least expect it. Its history is long and full of interesting events. The Sint-Jan de Doperkerk is more than just a place of worship. It is a living testament to the enduring spirit of Brussels. It’s a fascinating stop on any tour of this remarkable city. Enjoy it.