St. Gummarus Church, also known as the Great Church, is an imposing collegiate church in the centre of Lier.
From 1378 onwards, the former parish church was converted into this beautiful example of Brabant Gothic style. Construction took about 200 years, and influences of baroque and rococo are therefore visible.
In 1496, Philip the Handsome and Joanna of Castile married here.
Admire one of the oldest and most valuable stained glass windows from the 15th century or marvel at the impressive silver reliquary of St. Gummarus, the Colibrant triptych, the imposing choir stalls, Lier's copy of the Shroud of Turin and much more.
The restoration works on St. Gummarus Church will start in the autumn of 2021 and will continue in phases until 2029. The church will remain partially accessible to the public.
The church is dedicated to Gummarus, the patron saint of Lier. He was a knight and married to the malign Grimmara. He died on 11 October 714 in Emblem. His empty tomb can be found at the current location of St. Peter's Chapel. In 754, 40 years after his death, Gummarus was canonised.
The St. Gummarus Procession is held every year on the first Sunday after October 10.
The 83 metre high tower is adjacent to St. Gummarus church. Inside you can discover more about the carillon and at the top you have a beautiful view of the city.
From St. Gummarus tower, carillon music has been played since the 15th century. The current instrument is the heaviest 18th century carillon in Western Europe. Since 2014, Belgian carillon culture has been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage.
24 April 2023 - end of 2023: closed due to restoration
As from june you can get a glimpse of the works via a viewing box in the main portal. Free entry. First floor not accessible for wheelchair users. Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (weekend from 10 a.m.). Closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Check the progress of the restoration works and the public activities here.
