St Walburga’s Church

St Walburga’s Church: an imposing interplay

If there’s anything that typifies Oudenaarde, it’s the 88-metre tall spire of the St Walburga’s Church. What is remarkable is that the monument consists of two different architectural styles. The early Gothic choir section built in Tournai limestone dates from the 12th century, while the rest of the lower church is an exquisite example of 15th-century Brabant Gothic architecture. The rich history is also evident from the magnificent stained-glass windows.

The carillon of Oudenaarde

The carillon of Oudenaarde has existed for more than 500 years. In 1510, a certain Jan van Spiere delivers, at the request of the city’s government, a “clavier in torrekin om te beyaerdene”, according to a historic document from the City Archive. In any case, it appears to be the oldest mention of a carillon that has ever been found.

The carillon concerts are on Sundays from 12.00 until 13.00 p.m. and on Thursday from 10.00 a.m. until 11.00 a.m.