About the Location
The Protestant St. Lawrence Church is charmingly nestled in greenery, hidden behind a high wall. The history of this historic monument dates back to the 12th century, and its founding is attributed to the Abbess of Thorn. Originally, there was a wooden chapel, which was replaced around 1400 by a stone chapel with a tower. In 1480, construction began on a larger Gothic church adjacent to the existing tower.
During the Spanish siege in 1625, the church was largely destroyed. Reconstruction began in 1628 and was completed in 1632. When visiting, be sure to take a close look at the remarkable stained-glass windows by artist Charles Eyck.
Next to the church are two monuments commemorating Generals Chassé and Seelig, who were involved in the defense of the citadel in Antwerp between 1830 and 1832. Beneath the Chassé monument lies a crypt where 124 fallen soldiers are buried. The monument was unveiled on November 30, 1874, by King William III, in the presence of his two sons and many dignitaries.
Activities
Guided Tour
Guided tours are offered continuously inside the church, providing information about the history of the building and the monuments outside the church.
Exhibition of Sculptures by Ludovicus van Eijnatte
This year, new natural stone sculptures by Ludovicus van Eijnatte can once again be admired in and around the Protestant Laurentius Church. Outside on the grounds, you’ll find three bluestone works: “Bird Creature / Phoenix” on the lawn, “Return” at the meditation area, and permanent installations such as “Becoming” and “Moved-Unmoved” at the Laurentiushof. Inside the church choir, the sculptures “Winged Creature”, “Soul Life”, and “Gate of Light” (carved from alabaster and bluestone) capture the beautiful light streaming through the tall windows.
The works are symmetrically designed and radiate a deep sense of peace, order, and harmony. The artist’s background in architecture blends seamlessly with a natural-philosophical dimension: clean geometric forms are transformed into organic figures. In this way, the sculptures invite contemplation and evoke a sense of security, comfort, and origin.