Begijnhofkerk (Sint-Alexius and Sint-Catharinakerk) - Mechelen

The first mention of the beguines in Mechelen dates back to 1209. After many years of settling outside the city walls, they returned to the city center in 1578.

In 1629 the previously built chapel was replaced by a church. Pieter Huyssens and Jacques Francart drew a typical example of Baroque architecture for the Beguinage Church (1629-1647) . The design combined Italian models with a regional design that did not completely break with the past. After 1640 Lucas Faydherbe, a pupil of Rubens, may have been responsible for some of the interior decoration . Italian influences are evident through a rhythm of vaulted arcades supported by Corinthian columns and an imposing cornice . The cross vaults refer to the Gothic style.

willem vandenameele