Sint-Laurentiuskerk, located in the heart of Lokeren, Belgium, is a magnificent example of classicist baroque architecture with gothic elements. This pseudo-basilica cruciform church stands proudly at the Kerkplein and Grote Markt, drawing visitors with its historical significance and stunning architectural details. As you approach the church, the towering west façade, with its 67-meter-tall stone tower capped by a 4-meter spire and a gilded metal orb, is sure to leave you in awe.
The origins of Sint-Laurentiuskerk date back to 1139, making it a site steeped in history. The original cruciform church with a crossing tower was largely destroyed in 1584 due to war. However, between 1585 and 1621, it was rebuilt and expanded with a right aisle and two side choirs. The left aisle was added in 1670. The church took its current form between 1719 and 1726, following a devastating fire in 1719.
One of the most striking features of the church is its monumental west façade tower, designed by architect Pieter De Smet between 1719 and 1726. However, the construction of this grand tower was only completed in 1847, over a century later. The tower, made of natural stone, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and architectural prowess of the time.
During World War II, in 1944, the church tower was struck by a German bomb on its western side. Despite the damage, the church survived with minimal impact, and the visible hollow in the façade serves as a poignant reminder of its resilience. The same year, on January 24th, Sint-Laurentiuskerk was classified as a monument of immovable heritage, further cementing its place in history.
The interior of Sint-Laurentiuskerk is a treasure trove of artistic and architectural marvels. In the left aisle, you will find the Our Lady altar, crafted in 1671 by Antwerp artist J.B. de Vree and renewed in 1886 by J. De Cuyper. The right aisle houses the St. Lawrence altar, built in 1683, also by J.B. de Vree, and renewed in 1864 by J. De Cuyper.
One of the highlights of the church is the confessional in the left transept, attributed to Livinus Van Helderberg from Ghent. Built in 1731, it depicts scenes from the lives of Mary Magdalene, Peter, David, and the Prodigal Son. The pulpit, sculpted in 1736 by Theodoor Verhaegen from Mechelen, portrays the twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple, surrounded by scribes.
The high altar, constructed in the 18th century, is another masterpiece. It depicts the Sacred Heart of Christ in clouds and rays, along with the crucified Christ and a pelican. Beneath the altar, you can see the symbol of the Lamb of God, crafted in wood. This altar has undergone several modifications, with the latest changes dating back to 1887. The communion rail, made by De Prètere from Antwerp in 1859, and the wooden side altar of St. Barbara in the right transept, designed by J. De Cuyper in 1863, add to the church's grandeur.
The choir stalls, built in 1878 by Mr. Verwimp from Antwerp, are adorned with the four prophets: Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Daniel. The front is embellished with medallions representing the twelve apostles and their symbols. In 1897, J. De Cuyper added medallions depicting the life, vocation, diaconate, and martyrdom of St. Lawrence on the right side of the crossing, and the Seven Sorrows of Mary on the left side.
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The stained glass windows of Sint-Laurentiuskerk, mostly from the 19th century, are a sight to behold. In the high choir, you will find windows depicting the Adoration of the Shepherds (1874), the Adoration of the Kings (1874), the Transfiguration of Christ on Mount Tabor (1873), and the Ascension of Christ (1873). These windows were designed by local glazier Leopold Van der Poorten from Lokeren.
In the right crossing, the windows illustrate the Martyrdom and Glorification of St. Lawrence by Charles Lévêque from Beauvais (1875), and the Persecution of the Early Church by Stalins-Janssens from Antwerp (1886). The left crossing features windows showing the Coronation of Mary by Charles Lévêque (1875), Our Lady of the Rosary, St. Dominic, and St. Bridget by Stalins-Janssens (1885), and St. Anne, St. Joseph, and St. Joachim by Stalins-Janssens (1885).
In the right transept, you will find a window depicting the Glorification of St. Barbara by Stalins-Janssens (1887), and in the left transept, a window showing the Conversion of St. Paul by Stalins-Janssens (1887). The aisles on the left and right sides of the church feature depictions of saints by Arthur Verhaegen and Joseph Casier from Ghent (1895-1897).
Sint-Laurentiuskerk is not just a historical monument; it is a symbol of resilience, faith, and artistic excellence. Its walls echo stories of triumph over adversity, architectural brilliance, and deep-rooted spirituality. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Sint-Laurentiuskerk in Lokeren is an enriching experience that will leave you with a profound appreciation for its timeless beauty and enduring legacy.
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