Brussels Royal Square (Belgium)

Description

Location: Brussels, Belgium
Taken on: November 13, 2022
Format: JPEG
File size: 6.8 MB
Dimensions: 4000 x 3000 pixels
DPI: 300
Photographer: Andrey Kashukov, Cyprus

Photo can be used in posters, brochures, magazines, websites, blogs, business cards, applications, social media branding, packaging, postcards, notebooks, invitation backgrounds, flyers, banners, badges, stickers, collages, booklets, illustrations, etc.

Photo can be used in applications: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop Elements, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe XD, Adobe Express, Adobe After Effects, GIMP, Photopea, Krita, Pixlr E, Pixlr X, Paint.NET, Affinity Photo, Corel PaintShop Pro, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, Capture One Pro, Luminar Neo, Pixelmator Pro, ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate, Affinity Designer, Procreate, Sketch, etc.

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Brussels Royal Square & St. Jacques-sur-Coudenberg Church Print – Timeless Belgian Charm

Capture the majestic beauty of Brussels with this stunning print featuring the historic Royal Square (Place Royale) and the iconic Church of St. Jacques-sur-Coudenberg. Taken on a crisp November 13, 2022, this image perfectly encapsulates the grandeur and serene atmosphere of one of Brussels’ most significant landmarks.

What makes this print special:

• Iconic Brussels Landmark: The photograph prominently displays the neoclassical architecture of the Church of St. Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, with its distinctive clock tower and elegant columns, truly a centerpiece of Belgian heritage.
• Historic Royal Square: The wide-angle view showcases the spacious Royal Square, with its characteristic cobblestone paving and the impressive equestrian statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, adding depth and historical context to the scene.
• Atmospheric Lighting: The soft, natural light of a November day lends a subtle, refined quality to the image, highlighting architectural details and creating a sense of calm sophistication.
• High-Quality Resolution: Perfect for printing, this photograph captures the intricate details of the buildings and the vibrant energy of the square, ensuring a crisp and clear reproduction.
• Versatile Decor Piece: Whether you’re a lover of European history, an admirer of stunning architecture, or simply looking for a sophisticated piece to adorn your home or office, this print is an ideal choice. It brings a touch of Brussels’ timeless elegance to any space.
• Perfect Gift: A thoughtful and unique gift for travel enthusiasts, architecture lovers, or anyone with a connection to Belgium.

Bring a piece of Brussels’ regal charm into your life with this beautiful photographic print. It’s more than just a picture; it’s a window to a city steeped in history and architectural splendor.

Technical Details (for product variations/attributes):

• Location: Royal Square (Place Royale) & Church of St. Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, Brussels, Belgium
• Suggested Use: Wall Art, Home Decor, Office Decor, Gift

Categories: Brussels Photography, Cityscapes, European Travel, Architectural Prints, Landmarks

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The Church of St. Jacques-sur-Coudenberg (Église Saint-Jacques-sur-Coudenberg in French, Sint-Jacob-op-Koudenbergkerk in Dutch) is a prominent Roman Catholic church located on the historic Place Royale (Royal Square) in central Brussels, Belgium. It’s dedicated to Saint James the Greater.

Architectural Style: The church is a prime example of neoclassical architecture. Its design evokes the grandeur of ancient Greek and Roman temples, a common characteristic of buildings in the Place Royale ensemble.

Exterior Features:

• Grand Facade: The most striking feature is its imposing façade. It features a grand portico with six towering Corinthian columns that support a triangular pediment.
• Pediment Relief: The pediment was adorned with a colored fresco by Jean Portaels in the 19th century, and the tympanum (the triangular space within the pediment) contains bas-reliefs illustrating various biblical and religious scenes.
• Statuary: The portico is flanked by two colossal statues on high cylindrical bases, representing King David and Moses. Atop the three walls of the portico, there are five bas-reliefs by Jean Philippe Augustin Ollivier, depicting scenes such as “Christ driving out the merchants of the Temple” and “The martyrdom of Saint James.”
• Bell Tower and Dome: While the original neoclassical design was more temple-like, a distinctive octagonal wooden bell tower capped by a copper dome and a scrolled lantern was added in the 19th century (designed by Tilman-François Suys, completed 1849-1851). This addition gives the church its characteristic silhouette.
• Materials: The building is primarily constructed of brick, with stone detailing for the columns and facade elements.

Interior Features:

• Sober and Spacious: The interior, designed by Louis Montoyer, is characterized by its plain, sober, and solemn neoclassical style. It gives a strong impression of spaciousness and light.
• Corinthian Columns: Built-in Corinthian columns line the nave, contributing to the classical aesthetic.
• Artwork and Memorials: The church houses significant artworks, including large paintings (some by Jean-François Portaels), and a remarkable nomenclature (list) of parishioners who lost their lives in World War I. You’ll also find a pulpit by Jozef Van Meeuwen and a sculpture of Saint Joseph and Child by Laurent Delvaux.
• Pipe Organ: A notable gallery pipe organ, dating from 1844, is the work of renowned organ-builder Pierre Schyven.

Historical Significance:

• Construction: Built between 1776 and 1787, the church replaced an older Gothic convent church and chapel that were part of the Coudenberg Abbey, which was demolished during the urban development of the Place Royale. The cornerstone was laid by Charles Alexander of Lorraine in 1776.
• Royal Connections: It served as the official church of the court of the Governors of the Habsburg Netherlands. More significantly, it has strong ties to the Belgian monarchy:
  • On July 21, 1831, Leopold I, the first King of the Belgians, took his constitutional oath on a decorated stage in front of the church. This date is now celebrated as Belgian National Day.
  • Many baptisms and funerals of Belgian royal family members have taken place here.
• Changing Roles: During the French Revolution, the church was temporarily transformed into a “Temple of Reason” and then a “Temple of Law,” before being returned to Catholic control in 1802.
• Military Ordinariate: Since 1986, it has also served as the cathedral of the Military Ordinariate of Belgium, making it the official church of the Belgian armed forces.
• Historic Monument: The complex was designated a historic monument in 1959.

St. Jacques-sur-Coudenberg Church is not only a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture but also a site of profound historical importance to Belgium, particularly regarding its royal heritage.