St. Peter's Church in Leuven Reopens with Dieric Bouts Masterpieces
St. Peter's Collegiate Church in Leuven, Flanders, reopens to the public on July 9 after a long restoration of its radial chapels and interiors (2012–2020). The UNESCO-listed Gothic church, built over a thousand years ago, suffered fires and WWII bombings. Its current structure dates from the early 15th century, with an unfinished tower facade originally designed by Joost Metsys. The church now houses a new multimedia guide by M Museum, highlighting Flemish masterpieces including Dieric Bouts' "Last Supper" (1460s) and "Triptych of the Martyrdom of St. Erasmus," both commissioned for the church. Other treasures include the Edelheere Triptych, Jan Borman's Triumphal Cross, the tomb of Henry I, and the Sacrament Tower. The virtual tour promotes sustainable tourism post-lockdown.
Key facts
- St. Peter's Church in Leuven reopens July 9, 2020.
- The church was added to UNESCO's World Heritage list in 1999.
- Restoration of radial chapels and interiors lasted from 2012 to March 2020.
- The church's current structure dates from the early 15th century.
- Architect Joost Metsys designed an unfinished three-tower facade.
- Dieric Bouts was appointed official city painter of Leuven in 1468.
- Bouts' 'Last Supper' and 'Triptych of the Martyrdom of St. Erasmus' are displayed in their original locations.
- M Museum provides a multimedia guide for the church's artworks.
Entities
Artists
- Dieric Bouts
- Joost Metsys
- Quentin Metsys
- Jan Borman
Institutions
- St. Peter's Collegiate Church
- M Museum
- UNESCO
- Artribune
Locations
- Leuven
- Flanders
- Grote Markt