Saint Jacob's Chapel

The St. Jacob's Chapel, also known as the "Spanish Chapel," was established in 1383 by the magistrate at the St. Jacob's Almshouse and dedicated to St. James the Greater. In 1479, the chapel was completely destroyed by fire, but shortly thereafter it was rebuilt and reconsecrated in 1582 after the religious turmoil. During the 17th century, it served as a parish church for the Spanish troops (under the direction of the Jesuits), and after the French Revolution, it was temporarily designated as the Temple of Reason and – following the abolition of the Diocese of Antwerp – recognized as the parish church for the northern part of the city. In 1812, it was converted into a branch church, as the city council deemed St. Gummarus Church insufficient as a parish church. In the 19th century, the façade was restored, the interior was renovated, and a new tower was built. Heavily damaged in World War I (including all furnishings), it was rebuilt in 1923 by the contractor from Lier, Florent D'Hulst, according to plans by the Leuven architect Frans Vandendael. Canon Raymond Lemaire strongly influenced this restoration as a corresponding member of the Royal Commission for Monuments and Landscapes. On February 20, 1939, the chapel was protected as a monument by Royal Decree.

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