Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church travel guide

The Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, an iconic landmark in Mons, boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Named after Saint Waltrude, the patron saint of Mons, the church was constructed between 1450 and 1691 and exemplifies Brabantine Gothic architecture.

Initially, the church was established to house a community of canons who lived and prayed together, following the rule of Saint Augustine. Over centuries, the church has undergone various restorations, preserving its stunning stained glass windows and intricate sculptures.

One of the church's most remarkable features is the Car d'Or, a gilded chariot used in the annual Doudou festival, dedicated to Saint Waltrude. This event attracts thousands of visitors each year, highlighting the church's cultural and historical significance.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, the Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church offers a captivating glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Mons. Don't miss the chance to explore this magnificent edifice on your next visit.

Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church in Mons is renowned for its exceptional Gothic architecture, characterized by its soaring spires and intricate stonework. One of the most striking features is its nave, which stands at an impressive 24 meters high, creating a sense of grandeur and openness. The church houses a magnificent collection of 16th-century stained-glass windows that depict various biblical scenes and saints, casting colorful light across the interior.

The choir stalls are another highlight, carved with exquisite detail and featuring scenes from both the Old and New Testaments. Additionally, the church is home to the reliquary of Saint Waltrude, an ornate silver chest that is a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship. Visitors are often captivated by the church's grand organ, with its elaborate casing and powerful acoustics, making it a focal point during services and concerts.

The church also boasts a beautifully preserved treasury, showcasing a variety of liturgical objects, vestments, and manuscripts, offering a glimpse into the rich ecclesiastical history of Mons. These unique features collectively make Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church a must-visit for those interested in religious art, history, and architecture.

One of the most intriguing features of Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church is its incomplete bell tower, which was intended to reach a height of 190 feet but remains unfinished due to funding issues. The church houses an extraordinary collection of 16th-century stained glass windows, depicting intricate biblical scenes and figures with exceptional detail and color. Additionally, the church is renowned for its 15th-century alabaster sculptures created by Jacques du Broeucq, who also served as the tutor to the future Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. Each year, the church becomes the focal point of the Ducasse de Mons, a UNESCO-recognized festival that includes a procession featuring a golden carriage carrying the relics of Saint Waltrude. This event draws thousands of visitors, highlighting the church's enduring cultural and spiritual significance.

Located in the dynamic Mons, the popular Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Mons or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Belgium.

Mons is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Mons offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Mons and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Parc du Waux-Hall, Beaux-Arts Mons, Havré Castle, Belfry of Mons, and Jardin du Mayeur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Mons has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Mons, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Belgium!

The best time to explore Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church is in the late spring and early summer months, specifically from May to June. During this period, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for strolling around Mons and enjoying the scenic beauty of the church's surroundings. Additionally, visiting during these months allows you to experience the Ducasse de Mons, also known as the Doudou festival, which usually takes place in mid-June. This UNESCO-listed event features a vibrant procession and traditional activities that significantly enhance your visit to the church.

Autumn, particularly September and October, also offers a favorable time to explore Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church. The weather remains relatively warm, and the tourist crowds tend to be smaller compared to the peak summer months. This allows for a more serene and intimate experience while you marvel at the Gothic architecture and stunning interior of the church.

To avoid large crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit, consider planning your trip on weekdays or early in the morning. This strategy will help you make the most of your exploration and fully appreciate the spiritual and historical ambiance of Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church.

Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Mons, Belgium. If you're flying in, Brussels Airport is approximately 38.9 miles (62.5 km) away from Mons. From there, you can easily reach Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Mons, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, which is located 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Pl. Du Chapitre, 7000 Mons, Belgium, Belgium.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church!

With a rental car, discovering the popular Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church and Belgium's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 1 reputable rental car companies near Brussels Airport and the city of Mons, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Belgium cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Mons and beyond.

Conveniently explore Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church and plenty more captivating attractions in Mons by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Mons has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church below.

Aside from Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, Mons is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Mons, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Parc du Waux-Hall, Beaux-Arts Mons, and Havré Castle.

Parc du Waux-Hall is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Mons, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 2,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Parc du Waux-Hall is N90 22, 7000 Mons, Belgium.

Another appreciated attraction in Mons is Beaux-Arts Mons. Like Parc du Waux-Hall, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 1,400 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Rue Neuve 8, 7000 Mons, Belgium.

Havré Castle is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Mons. This establishment and top attraction in Mons has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,400 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Rue du Château 30, 7021 Mons, Belgium.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Mons below.