Collégiale Sainte-Gertrude Nivelles

The Collégiale Sainte-Gertrude in Nivelles is one of the oldest, largest and best-preserved Romanesque churches in the world. The building was consecrated in 1046 in the presence of Emperor Henry III of the Holy Roman Empire and Bishop Wazo of Liège. With a central nave 102 metres long, it is one of the most imposing Romanesque churches in Europe, in Ottonian Romanesque style with two transepts and two opposing choirs.

The church was originally built for the Abbey of Nivelles, founded in the 7th century by Itta of Metz as a Benedictine convent for nuns. The abbey played a central role in the history of Brabant and is commemorated today by the 11th-century crypt — one of the largest in Belgium. In the south tower stands Jean de Nivelles ("Djan Djan"), a golden automaton bell-ringer about 2 metres tall and weighing 350 kg.

Accessibility is partial, a characteristic typical of monumental Romanesque heritage. The main entrance is reachable for wheelchair users via a ramp, and the main church is on ground level with some raised sections (especially the choir) that are not always autonomously accessible. The crypt requires stairs down and is therefore not accessible for wheelchair users — its history can however be followed via panels and audio info from ground level.

For accessible parking we recommend the Grand-Place of Nivelles, a few step-free minutes from the Collégiale. The city of Nivelles is largely flat and paved around the church, with some historic cobblestone sections. For those wanting a guided visit with attention to accessibility: call the Nivelles tourism office in advance on +32 67 84 08 64 to confirm an adapted tour. The tower tour (with Jean de Nivelles) is via a climbing staircase — not wheelchair-adapted.

Combine a visit with a Wavre day trip or a day at Walibi Belgium 15 minutes' drive away for a family-friendly Walloon Brabant weekend.