Flanders invests 175,000 euros in restoring 16th-century Gaasbeek church after faulty renovation

The 16th-century Our Lady's Church in Gaasbeek, part of the municipality of Lennik, Belgium, is set to undergo significant restoration work, with Flanders contributing 175,000 euros.

The primary focus of the renovation is the church's facade. A previous restoration effort incorrectly repointed the brickwork using cement, leading to severe moisture problems and escalating damage to the structure. This necessitates a complete overhaul of the facade.

In addition to the facade repairs, the project will also address the stained-glass windows, which show signs of deterioration in various places. The exterior woodwork is also heavily aged and will be refurbished. The total cost for these comprehensive works is estimated at 322,000 euros.

Minister of Immovable Heritage Ben Weyts highlighted the importance of preserving such village landmarks. "The parish church is often the pride of a village," he stated. "Moisture problems may seem trivial, but they can have a devastating effect. We are intervening now so that this village church can be preserved for future generations."

The Agency for Immovable Heritage will cover more than half of the total cost, amounting to 175,000 euros, with the remaining expenses borne by the Church Factory O.L.V. Gaasbeek.

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The parish church is often the pride of a village. Moisture problems may seem trivial, but they can have a devastating effect. We are intervening now so that this village church can be preserved for future generations.