Church of St. Michael (Sint-Michielskerk) description and photos - Belgium: Ghent
Rating: 8,1/10 (130 votes) 
Church of St. Michael (Sint-Michielskerk) description and photos - Belgium: Ghent. Detailed information about the attraction. Description, photographs and a map showing the nearest significant objects. The title in English is Sint-Michielskerk. Photo and descriptionThe Church of St. Michael is located on the small square Saint-Michelsplein near the bridge of St. Michael, which connects the two banks of the Leie River. It is famous for its low 23-meter tower, which recalls the ambitious plans of the architect Livinus Kruil, which remained unrealized. He worked on the reconstruction of the church in 1662 and wanted to build a 134-meter-high tower at the temple, which would exceed the 89-meter bell tower of St. Bavo's Cathedral. The Brabant Gothic tower was never completed for financial reasons. For a long time it stood unfinished, until in 1828 it was covered with a flat roof. Thus, it should be concluded that the construction of the church of St. Michael lasted about 400 years: from 1440 to 1828. On the site, where the current church of St. Michael was built, a chapel previously stood, which was first mentioned in 1105. It was demolished due to dilapidation and impossibility of restoration. The new temple was built in parts: first, the nave and transept, then the choirs and a number of chapels. Once - during the Reformation - construction was interrupted. During the construction of the church, red brick and white limestone were used, which create an interesting contrast. The rich decoration of the church should be noted: an altar, a neo-Gothic pulpit, carved confessionals made in the Baroque, Rococo and neoclassical style, several sculptures of the XVIII centuries and many paintings of the Baroque era, including "Christ on the Cross" by Anthony van Dyck and paintings by Philippe de Champagne. It was demolished due to dilapidation and impossibility of restoration. The new temple was built in parts: first, the nave and transept, then the choirs and a number of chapels. Once - during the Reformation - construction was interrupted. During the construction of the church, red brick and white limestone were used, which create an interesting contrast.     We also recommend reading Sochi Art Museum description and photos - Russia - South: Sochi Topic: Church of St. Michael (Sint-Michielskerk) description and photos - Belgium: Ghent. |
