The Collegiate Church of Saint Gertrude in Nivelles is one of the most remarkable examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. Consecrated in 1046, it is the jewel of the city of Nivelles, both for its history and its impressive architecture. Its double-headed plan, with two transepts and two opposing choirs, links it to the Ottonian tradition of Romanesque style, inspired by the Rhine. With a central nave 102 metres long, an eastern transept over 44 metres long and walls up to 20 metres high, the collegiate church is one of the largest Romanesque churches in the world.
The interior is notable for its simplicity, sturdy pillars and blue stone vaults, while some of the major pieces of furniture, such as the Renaissance stalls (1566), the pulpit and various altarpieces, reflect different periods of religious art. With a rich history dating back to the Merovingian period, traces of which can be seen in the archaeological basement, the collegiate church also houses a vast crypt, the largest in our region, as well as a cloister and the famous ‘Jean de Nivelles’ jacquemart, a medieval automaton that is emblematic of the town. The complex, classified as an exceptional monument, was carefully restored in the 20th century after suffering severe damage during the Second World War, regaining its original splendour and offering a real journey through the history and heritage of Walloon Brabant.
Sources: Ville de Nivelles & Wikipedia
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