SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH
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Church built in sandstone and brick, in Brabantine Gothic style, presenting a series of works by local artists
Construction of the present church began around 1480, replacing an 11th century building. Built in sandstone and brick, which is visually reminiscent of some Tuscan buildings, it belongs to the Brabant Gothic style. It was not completed until 1636, almost a century and a half later, and is topped by a bulbous bell tower, characteristic of the region. But the church was ravaged by fire in 1695 and the beautiful tower was not rebuilt exactly as it was. The present tower thus presents a rather unusual massive aspect. The bell tower has a carillon with five bells, inaugurated on Easter Sunday 1954. It plays the Song of the Wavriens at the change of hours and the Ode to Joy (Beethoven) at half hours. The oldest bell in the church, dating from 1696, was then taken to the Houbotte Park opposite the station to be admired by all passers-by.
Very well balanced, the interior also reveals some particularities. These include the baptismal font dating from 1620, the Louis XV style pulpit with a double staircase, the organs dating from the mid-19th century and a 16th century fresco in the south transept showing Saint Guidon, patron saint of farmers. The church also has a series of works by local artists. For the anecdote, let's note the cannonball in one of the pillars of the right nave, caused by a French cannon during the Napoleonic era!
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