Get to know the rich history of our city
Visiting the basilica is not only a great way to explore the rich history of our city; you'll also get to see several masterpieces of European art history.
The cannonballs Our Lady of Halle caught in her cloak, according to legend, to protect the city from a siege by Philip of Cleves in 1489 are just one of the many things on display. You'll also be able to experience the stories told by the many stained-glass windows, and you'll learn how Halle grew into a pilgrimage site thanks to its black, miraculous sculpture of Our Lady. Elsewhere, discover the unique fourteenth-century figures of the apostles, or imagine how the pastor addressed the congregation from the baroque seventeenth-century pulpit.
In the Trazegnies chapel, marvel at the alabaster retable from 1533 by Jean Mone in the Renaissance style, and take a moment to reflect at the tomb of Joachim, son of Louis XI. Above all, don't miss the stunning baptistry with its baptismal font in hammered copper dating back to 1466. The treasury is a must too: the many royal gifts and the mysterious age-old tree trunk have to be seen to be believed!
➜ The treasury also serves as the perfect place to learn more about the history of the Basilica of St Martin.
➜ By the way, did you know that peregrine falcons regularly nest in the basilica's tower to breed?
Let us guide you...
Visitor tour
The visitor tour will take you past all the highlights of the basilica. There's also a challenge for children over the age of eight: find your way out of the basilica 'maze'! Both tours are available for free at the basilica itself or at the tourism office.
Virtual tour
Uncontrollably curious? While scrolling through the 360° images, discover all the masterpieces in the basilica. Stroll through the nave to the high choir, walk past the Moneretable and zoom in on the baptismal font to admire all the details up close.
Access to exclusive spots
Would you like to climb the tower of the basilica or admire the treasures in the treasure room? Then stop by during open house days or during Heritage Day.
Build your own basilica
Build your own cardboard basilica and act out Halle's many historical tales for yourself! Download the instructions below, cut out your favourite personalities and put together your own cardboard basilica. Decorate it as beautifully as you can and turn it into a cool home for our famous Halle residents. Sell banners to pilgrims as the Vaantjesboer, make sure the Black Madonna catches those cannonballs in time or read out proverbs from the Golden Book. If you prefer making up your own stories, that's fine too!
