The Saint Gertrude Church

Saint Gertrude of Nijvel has traditionally been the patron saint of
Machelen. The abbey of Nijvel indeed possessed extensive rights
and properties in the parish. Around 1450, construction of the current church began, replacing an older church. In the period 1488 – 1490, Machelen, including the church, was almost completely destroyed. Around 1500, the reconstruction of the church began and it could be re-consecrated on May 15, 1551. In 1584, Machelen and the church were burned down by Calvinists during the religious troubles. The church was rebuilt again. The consecration took place in 1604 but further finishing touches lasted until 1647. A thorough restoration followed in 1899.
To the still unfinished church, a neo-Gothic style was added in 1899-1901. Inside the church, there are three altars including that of Saint Gertrude from 1634, a remarkable communion rail and baroque confessionals, numerous valuable paintings and sculptures including a 16th-century statue of Saint Gertrude.

The Saint Gertrude Church located in Dorpsplein Machelen can be visited from 11:00 AM.

Erfgoed Vlaanderen