Saint Hermes Basilica

Saint Hermes can be seen on the front right in the basilica of Ronse. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Belgium.

The image of Saint Hermes as a rider originated in the Middle Ages and reflects his role as a protector against mental illnesses. He is often depicted as a Roman prefect on horseback, dragging the devil on a chain. This image symbolizes his victory over evil and his ability to heal the mentally ill, which at that time was often seen as driving out demonic influences. The rider image emphasizes his strength and authority in this spiritual battle.

The depiction of the devil with goat legs is no coincidence. The devil is often portrayed as a ram or half-man with goat legs due to influences from Greek mythology, specifically from the god Pan. Pan was a popular god with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a goat, including horns and goat legs. He was associated with lust and chaos, making him a target for demonization by Christians from the 4th century onwards. As a result, the devil in medieval art acquired characteristics of Pan, such as horns and goat legs.

Pascal Brackman