It’s no secret: there are fewer worshippers than before. But even the most sceptical recognise the precious heritage value of churches. The fight against the abandonment of these buildings is a bit of a modern day crusade. Explore these churches that have already found a new lives and purposes.
Spirito
Formerly: The Church of the Resurrection (Ixelles)
"God is a DJ." An expression to be taken literally when talking about Spirito: a former Anglican church just steps from Porte de Namur which has been turned into a Mecca for hundreds of clubbers to come each week, seeking salvation. This neo-Gothic 19th-century church was originally a gathering place for Brussels' Anglican community. A little anecdote: its foundation was a concession made to none other than Leopold I, an Anglican and the first King of the Belgians. Since 2010, it has become a critically acclaimed nightclub. The high vaults, stained glass windows, and imposing pillars offer a transcendent clubbing experience.
Spirito © Nachtschaduw
Maniak Padoue
Formerly: Saint Anthony of Padua Church (Forest)
In the Bible, Peter was a rock, a faithful and solid support. Unfortunately for outdoor climbers, rocks are rare in the Brussels area. However, indoor climbing is experiencing a boom. Just look at the number of climbing gyms springing up all over the capital, where visitor numbers are reaching new heights. And what building is better suited to reach such heights? A deconsecrated church, of course. Forest council understood this well when giving the three-aisle Church of Saint Anthony of Padua its new vocation. Like any other house of God, everyone is welcome here: from professional climbers to beginners. Ready to climb your way to seventh heaven? Careful on the way down.
© Maniak Padoue
Les Brigittines
Formerly: The Church of the Brigittines (Brussels city centre)
Enthusiasts will confirm without hesitation: Les Brigittines is the place to go for those who want to stay at the forefront of contemporary performing arts. This space offers a prime spot for interdisciplinary creation and experimentation. This cultural centre located in the Marolles district is also an architectural must-see. The unique concept of doubling, envisioned by architect Andrea Bruno, is astonishing: the former 1663 Baroque chapel shines alongside its contemporary glass and weathering steel counterpart. A demonstration of how past and present can complement each other in a contrasting but harmonious whole, perhaps embodying the challenges of modern cities.
Centre culturel NOH – Maison de la Création
Formerly: The Church of Saint Nicholas (outskirts of Brussels)
The old Church of Saint Nicholas in Neder-Over-Heembeek is one of the oldest in our region: dating back to the 12th century. This building has had a turbulent history and has undergone many transformations. In 1935, it was deconsecrated and shortly after, it became the property of the City of Brussels, which installed a museum there. Since 2016, this small church has been part of the French-speaking Maison de la Création cultural centre and has found its true calling: bringing people together around music, exhibitions, and performing arts.
© Sophie Lenoir
© Minh Ph
Mona
Formerly: Church of Saint Magdalene (Jette)
Things are happening in Jette too. In 2022, a beautiful project was born: Mona. For years, the listed convent building on place du Miroir was closed to the public. Thanks to the Toestand association, a Brussels organisation that fervently fights against buildings standing abandoned and unused, this former convent has become an open meeting space for dialogue, exchange, creation, and experimentation. Mona meets the social, cultural, and ecological needs of the neighbourhood. You can participate in activities there and relax in the gardens. It's a temporary occupation, so don’t delay and visit it now!
© Mona
Le Grand Hospice (Groot Godshuis)
Formerly: Pacheco Hospice / Pacheco Institute (Brussels city centre)
We’re cheating a little, but we think you’ll forgive us. The Grand Hospice is not a deconsecrated church, but a large neoclassical complex dating from 1827, located where the infirmary of Brussels’ Grand Béguinage once stood. For years, this place took care of the sick and the elderly. Today, it is a lively and welcoming meeting place in the heart of the capital. You can already play pétanque, attend yoga classes, repair your bike, relax in the garden, and much more!