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Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula
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The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is the primary church of Brussels and a premier example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. Construction of the current edifice began in the early 13th century on the foundations of an 11th-century Romanesque church and was only completed in the 16th century with the finishing of the two massive west towers. The cathedral is dedicated to the patron saints of Brussels: Archangel Michael and Saint Gudula. Inside, the monumental Baroque statues of the apostles lining the nave and the exquisite 16th-century stained-glass windows are particularly noteworthy. Given its status, the cathedral frequently hosts royal weddings, state funerals, and major national religious ceremonies of Belgium.
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A postcard from Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula
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Create a postcard- Location: Belgium
- Highlights: Saint Michael and Gudula Cathedral · Reset Atelier · Tour du pléban - Plebaantoren
- Nearby: Grimbergen (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 61 | 55 | 38 | 59 | 63 | 75 | 79 | 55 | 63 | 69 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels is the country's primary church and is typically open daily. The interior with its stained glass can be visited.
Typical hours
The cathedral usually opens from 8 am to 6 pm, Sundays from 9 am. The crypt has separate hours to check on the website.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed throughout the interior, flash is prohibited during mass. The stained glass windows are especially photogenic against the light.
Time needed
A visit to the cathedral takes about 45 minutes to one hour. Those wanting to see the crypt and treasury should allow 90 minutes.
Combine with
Combine with the Royal Palace or Mont des Arts. The nearby Brussels Park is also worth a stroll.
Getting there
The cathedral is centrally located in Brussels, metro stations Gare Centrale or Parc are within walking distance. Bus lines 71 and 79 also stop nearby.
Insider tip
Plan your visit for the morning to get the best light for the stained glass. Look out for organ concerts that often take place on Saturdays.
Geography
Facts
- The construction of the cathedral spanned roughly 300 years, from 1226 to 1519.
- The twin west towers stand at a height of 64 meters.
- The ornate Baroque pulpit was carved in 1699 by Hendrik Frans Verbruggen.
- The church was officially elevated to cathedral status in 1962.
- The crypt contains 13th-century tombs belonging to the Dukes of Brabant.
- The stained-glass windows in the Chapel of the Sacrament were donated in 1533 by Charles V.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula (10)
Saint Michael and Gudula Cathedral
Cathedral in Brussels, houses documents of a 1370 eucharistic miracle.
🌐 cathedralisbruxellensis.be🕒 Mo-Fr 07:30-18:00; Sa 07:30-15:30; Su 14:00-18:00
Nada Booking
Arts centre in Brussels, organizes events and exhibitions.
Bâkî
Gallery in Brussels, specializing in contemporary art.
Galerie du Roi - Koningsgalerij
Covered passageway in Brussels, part of the Royal Galleries.
Espace Vanderborght - Vanderborghtgebouw
Gallery in Brussels, former department store, now exhibition space.
Marc Sleen House🏛 museum
Former comics museum in Brussels, dedicated to Marc Sleen.
Brussels Comics Figurines Museum🏛 museum
Comics museum in Brussels, displays figurines and original drawings.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Do royal weddings take place here?
Yes, it is the main church for royal ceremonies, weddings, and state funerals in Belgium.
How much is the entrance fee?
Access to the cathedral is free; only the crypt and the treasury require a fee.
How long does a visit take?
A standard walk-through takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Is there an organ there?
Yes, the impressive swallow's nest organ hangs on the north side of the nave.
When are the services?
Masses are held daily, mostly in the morning, with international services on Sundays.
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula: where is it located?
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is located in Belgium.
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint Michael and Gudula Cathedral, Reset Atelier, Tour du pléban - Plebaantoren.
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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