Sint-Joriskerk Antwerpen (Saint George's Church), Antwerp

Saint George's Church in Antwerp is a notable Roman Catholic church with a rich history dating back to its earliest mentions in 1201. Originally situated just outside the city walls, the chapel was consecrated on July 6, 1304, by Archbishop Isernus of Sweden. As Antwerp expanded in 1314, the chapel found itself within the city's boundaries, adjacent to Saint George's Gate. The church began extensive construction in 1326, including the addition of a choir and side chapels.

The church faced significant turmoil during the iconoclasm on August 20, 1566, when its interior was ravaged and it was temporarily used by Calvinists. After being reclaimed by the Spanish under Alexander Farnese in 1585, it resumed Catholic worship and underwent Baroque-inspired renovations, adding new altars, epitaphs, and decorations.

A dramatic change occurred at the end of the 18th century during the French Revolutionary regime, leading to the church’s destruction in 1797. The site was sold and repurposed, but in 1846, Pastor Jan Van Cauwenbergh managed to buy back the land. Under architect Léon Suys, a new, neo-Gothic church was built, and completed in 1853.

The church features Pre-Raphaelist murals by Godfried Guffens and Jan Swerts, consecrated in 1871, depicting Jesus' life and sufferings. The church also houses a renowned large organ built in 1867 by Merklin-Schütze, notable for its historical significance and preservation.

Other significant elements include the statue of Our Lady of the Castle, adorned with a cloak created in 1867 and featuring symbols of Marian virtues, and the gilded brass reliquary of forty patron saints against contagious diseases, made in 1878. The church's stained-glass windows, crafted by Jean-Baptiste Capronnier between 1871 and 1875, have been meticulously restored.

Today, Saint George's Church stands as a historical monument and an active place of worship, reflecting a blend of architectural innovation and deep-rooted religious traditions, central to Antwerp’s cultural and spiritual life.