St. Peter's Church

St. Peter's Church

Anyone who thinks that St. Peter's Church is a church like any other, will be pleasantly surprised. The exterior is remarkably sober, the interior is breathtaking. The showpiece is the pulpit from 1862. Once you enter, let the myths come to you.

Survivor of iconoclasm

How old this oldest church in Turnhout is, remains a mystery. But the result of centuries of work is nothing short of ingenious. The familiar interior especially is a great sight for sore eyes. No trace of devastation during iconoclasm. On the contrary. The pulpit, the high altar, and the sculptures and paintings are of unparalleled beauty. A rich church treasure is also preserved. Don’t tell anyone.

Mosquito fighters

The pulpit, the stained glass windows, the organ and the altars, once seemed to go up in flames. It looked as if the church tower was on fire. But the focus of the fire turned out to be a large swarm of mosquitoes in the sunshine. Thus, the Turnhoutmen were nicknamed 'mosquito fighters'. There are more myths situated around the church. A worthwhile effort to discover them!

Visit St. Peter's Church

The public can visit St. Peter's Church from Tuesday through Saturday from 8.30 am to 5 pm. On Sundays and public holidays the church is open from 9.30 am to 5 pm. The entrance is free.

For a complete experience, you can also make a group visit to St. Peter's Church and be led by a guide.