Carolus Borromeus Church

The Church of St. Charles Borromeo has stood in the heart of Antwerp for centuries. Originally it was the city’s only Jesuit church, but in 1779 it was rededicated to Saint Charles Borromeo. Borromeo, the Archbishop of Milan, was known as the loving reformer. He sought to open the Church to all of God’s children, not just the rich and powerful. His ideals, however, also made him enemies. In 1569, a priest attempted to assassinate him. Although Borromeo was shot, he was unharmed—a miracle he attributed to “the Hand of God.” He pleaded for mercy for his attacker, but the man was nevertheless executed. After his death in 1584, Borromeo became the patron saint of bishops, cardinals, and spiritual leaders.

During the church’s construction, local artist Peter Paul Rubens was commissioned to paint two altarpieces and the ceiling, assisted by his pupils. These priceless artworks were lost when lightning struck the church in 1718, setting it ablaze. It remained closed for many years until it was restored and reopened under the name St. Carolus Borromeus Church.

Another major restoration took place in the 1980s to return the church to its original and authentic beauty. Today, it stands as one of Antwerp’s most impressive Baroque churches.