Saint-Lievens source / Saint-Livinus source - Sint-Lievens-Esse

This spring is closely associated with the legend of Saint Livinus , an Irish missionary and martyr from the 7th century.

The spring is a historical place of pilgrimage. According to tradition, Saint Livinus is said to have struck the ground with his staff during his preaching in the region, after which a spring sprang up at that spot. This act is seen as a symbol of his holiness and connection with the region. After his martyrdom in 633—where he was beheaded —he is said, according to legend, to have walked to Sint-Lievens-Houtem with his head under his arm to be buried there.

The source consists of a well with a brick pillar chapel behind it , in which a polychrome statue of Saint Livinus stands. The current chapel probably replaces an 18th century example.

Willem Vandenameele