The church of Breendonk certainly does not stand out because of its architectural or art-historical qualities, but has nevertheless occupied a prominent place in the village image for almost a century.

On the one hand, she owes this to the position of her predecessor. From its foundation in 1779-1780, it formed the heart of the village center still to be developed. On the other hand, the destruction of the old church in 1914 created an open space where the new church could be completely redesigned. She was built a bit more back than her predecessor, away from the street. In addition, the Van Winstenhoven farm, which had been right next to the church since the 18th century, was demolished after the war to create more space for a new presbytery, a presbytery garden and a church square. Together with the presbytery, the church forms a compact whole that radiates a certain monumentality. However, it is by no means an architectural masterpiece.

The Sint-Leonarduskerk is a neo-Gothic, but not stylishly designed building with elements from several architectural styles.

Source: breendonk800.weebly.com/description-van-de-kerk.html

Translated by Google •

🇧🇪 Herwig Aertbeliën

October 13, 2022

At the outbreak of the First World War, the village church of Breendonk quickly became an excellent observation post for Fort Breendonk. When the German army attacks the fourth sector of Fort Antwerp on September 4, 1914, the church tower is also a target. the tower takes several direct hits, after which the Belgian observers clear the tower. The Belgian artillery will in turn shell the church tower when it notices that German observers are using the tower as an observation post. several grenades hit the church. after the fighting of 1914, the church is demolished. It is rebuilt after the war.

Source: 2014-18 Scheldt Land

Translated by Google •

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Location: Puurs, Mechelen, Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium

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