The Collegiate Church of Lobbes

The Collegiate Church of Lobbes is a church that dates to the Carolingian period. Two interesting details to discover: the two belltowers, which boast different styles, and the first writings in the world. Many people do not know this, but this building has a phenomenal history.

A former abbey and, later, a collegiate church

This building (which is listed as ‘exceptional built heritage of Wallonia’, it should be said!) can be seen from far away. It’s built on a rocky outcrop above the city of Lobbes.

If you look closer, the first thing you see are the belltowers. The two are completely different in style, as though one of the belltowers was placed atop the church. One is Carolingian and the other Roman, beautifully illustrating the long history of this site. The entire church shows this ambivalence through a number of details.

The church dates to 823 CE, making it one of the oldest churches in Belgium.

Worth the visit, even without a service

What is interesting about this church is that its history is not immediately apparent. The style is stripped back and the atmosphere soothing.

The more we explore this building, however, the cooler it becomes.

For example, the wall charter reveals that the first illustrations of the Bible were produced here. The first illustrations in the world, in fact.

The crypt, also, is home to the tomb of the knight Odin. You can discover his story when you get there.

A must-see in Thuin and Aulne Abbey

The church is surrounded by the former cemetery and the garden of Folcuin, a pretty garden full of aromatic herbs. This is a nice spot to explore.

A little magic inhabits this place. You feel as though you are walking in the footsteps of your ancestors.

There is even a special version of the audio guide for kids.

Ready to go?