The Notre-Dame du Marché Chapel

The municipality of Jodoigne is known for this centrally located chapel dedicated to Notre-Dame du Marché. Restoration works, which started in 2008 and were completed in 2011, have restored the monument to all its glory.The most striking element on the outside of the chapel is undoubtedly the spiral weather vane, an exceptional feature in this region. Its shape ensures that the weather vane on top of the tower can withstand strong winds. The massive tower is a landmark in the landscape and stands out with its beautiful white Gobertrange stones.The chapel was recently partially desecrated. In addition to worship, there is also room for cultural activities such as exhibitions and concerts. The choir and the altar are reserved for worship. Here the painting of Our Lady of the Rosary takes center stage. On the side altars are statues of the Virgin and Child and of Saint Roch.In the ship, extendable benches can accommodate a hundred spectators. Panels were placed along the walls, which can be used for exhibitions.In an extension behind the choir is a cenotaph: a memorial monument where the body of the deceased is not actually present. This memorial commemorates Count Winand de Glymes, the former lord of Jodoigne, and his wife Michelle, who died in 1668 and 1671 respectively. They are depicted lying down with eyes closed and hands folded. The count is dressed in his armor. His helmet and gloves are near his head.
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There was already a chapel on the Grand-Place of Jodoigne in 1279 and it was then called the capella fon geldoniensis. The economic and demographic growth of the city in the 14th century prompted the local religious authorities to enlarge the building. In the first phase, they wanted to build a very large chapel, with three naves. But due to a lack of money, the project was stopped and the single nave that can still be seen today was stopped.
In 1353, when the square, high and massive tower that we see today was not yet finished, the Bishop of Liège dedicated the chapel to Our Lady.
In 1632, the building was deliberately set on fire by mutinous troops, but it underwent a large-scale restoration campaign from 1634 to 1637. On that occasion, the initial shape was restored to the twisted spire, a curiosity in Brabant. For many years, the cost of building and maintaining the chapel required original initiatives. For example, the civil rights taxes levied by the city since 1211 were deposited with other taxes in the churchwardenship fund. After years of financial contributions, the citizens of Jodoigne believed that their fate was linked to that of the chapel.
The building, which had been neglected for many years, has been classified as a historical monument since 1958. It was restored and the work was completed in 2011. The chapel is now deconsecrated and hosts concerts and cultural events.
(Information board on site)

Striking with a torsing in the tower...