Maria Church
The Maria Church in Cadzand-Dorp is an early Gothic, two-aisled church built with yellow Flemish bricks. This Scheldt Gothic church, located between Mariastraat and Prinsestraat, is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
What makes the Maria Church special?
- Historical Architecture: In 1250, the wooden chapel was replaced by a stone church, the Onze Vrouwe Kercke, originally with only one nave. In 1325, a second nave was added, and in the 15th century, the church received a massive tower, the Lambertus Tower.
- Rich History: During the Iconoclasm of 1566, the church was taken over by the Reformists. Due to decay and wars, it fell into disrepair, but major restorations followed in 1610 and 1641. The heavily damaged Lambertus Tower could not be restored and was replaced by a ridge turret. In the 17th century, the church became definitively Protestant, although it is still commonly referred to as the Maria Church.
- Unique Features: During the 1929 restoration, the ridge turret was replaced by the current tower, a wooden spire with an onion-shaped crown. Inside, you’ll find a remarkable organ from 1902, built by the Frisian organ builder J.F. Kruse.
- War History: During the liberation of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen on 8 October 1944, the church was heavily damaged. Almost all stained-glass windows were lost, except for the window depicting “The Lamb of God”, which can still be admired today.
Practical Information
- Activities: The Maria Church, a national monument, is owned by the Protestant Church De Westhoek in Sluis. Regular church services are held, including German-language services for tourists during summer weeks. Besides services, exhibitions and concerts are frequently organised in the Maria Church.
- Opening Hours: For current opening hours and activities, visit the Cadzand Cultureel website.
- Entrance: Admission is free; donations are welcome.
Visit the Maria Church in Cadzand-Dorp and experience the rich history and serene atmosphere of this remarkable monument.
Furthermore Maria Church is near the following sights: World Peace Flame (±10 m), Mill of Cadzand-Dorp (±450 m), Shortgolf Cadzand-Bad (±1,3 km), Playground at Noordzee Résidence Cadzand-Bad (±1,4 km) & Adventure Minigolf Cadzand-Bad (±1,4 km).
For information
Prinsestraat 17, Cadzand-Dorp
web. Website
Display Maria Church