The Church of the Recollects forms part of a remarkable architectural complex built between 1524 -40 and financed by Emperor Charles V and his aunt, Margaret. The Recollects were an order of religious who came to Nivelles four years after the death of St Francis of Assisi (1226). In 1595 the order became part of the Friars Minor (Recollects).
Up until the end of the 18th century, the convent experienced a long period of prosperity and spiritual richness. Then, after the monks left, the building served various purposes, including as a hospital (wounded from the battle of Waterloo were cared for here) a hospice, a school and a law-court. The church was re-consecrated after restoration in 1964.
On the exterior, the differing colours of grey and white stonework emphasize the simplicity of this typical example of the Brabantine Gothic style. The soaring bays and solid buttresses of the single-naved structure add elegance, with the sole decorative elements being the window tracery in Flamboyant Gothic style.
Go into the church. The impression is of calmness and verticality. In the choir, the keystone of the vault bears an escutcheon with the coat-of-arms of Charles V.
Can you find the reconstruction of the shrine of St Mary of Oignies ?
