Saint Michael鈥檚 Church, Leuven

Constructed between 1650 and 1671 under the guidance of Jesuit architect Willem Hesius, Saint Michael's Church was initially intended as a place of worship for the Jesuit College of Leuven. The Jesuit community, founded by Ignatius de Loyola in Paris in 1540, found its way to Leuven in 1542, where it established its presence and began laying the foundation for Saint Michael's Church.

Reflecting the grandeur of Baroque architecture, Saint Michael's Church is often regarded as a masterpiece of the Jesuit style. Drawing inspiration from the illustrious Il Ges霉 Baroque Church in Rome, the church stands as a testament to the artistic and spiritual prowess of its creators. Despite its intended dome remaining unfinished, the church's facade stands as one of the renowned "seven wonders of Leuven," adorned with intricate decorations and ornate detailing that captivate the eye of beholders.

Rich in historical artifacts and original Baroque furnishings, such as the copper holy-water font dating back to 1473 and the frontal facade resembling an altar, the church offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past and architectural splendor.

Today, Saint Michael's Church continues to stand as a symbol of faith and cultural heritage, welcoming visitors from near and far to marvel at its awe-inspiring beauty and immerse themselves in its rich history.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Leuven. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Sight Name: Saint Michael鈥檚 Church
Sight Location: Leuven, Belgium (See walking tours in Leuven)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Leuven Introduction Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Leuven, Belgium

Create Your Own Walk in Leuven

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles

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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles

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