Restoration of Sint-Geertrui church
In May 1944, Sint-Geertrui church was hit by a stray British bomb intended for Leuven's railway marshalling yard. The damage was significant. The church was quickly rebuilt, but 75 years later it once again needs serious restoration.
Spire
The unique spire (the nail-less tower and one of Leuven's so-called Wonders) was already thoroughly restored more than twenty years ago.
Tower body
In 2024, small fragments were found falling from the underlying tower body. For safety reasons, debris nets were installed. In agreement with the city, the Sint-Geertrui church board - the institution responsible for the church building among other things - is planning restoration in the coming years, before Leuven becomes European Capital of Culture in 2030.
Moisture
Stability and rising damp: the entire church building must be protected against rising moisture, especially in the outer walls. Many exterior windows also need repair and reinforcement. Leuven is a wet area, crossed by waterways, primarily branches of the Dijle that flow past the church.
Heating and stability
Heating: the church has not been heated for decades, except during services with terrace heaters. With an unexpected subsidy from the Flemish government, the church board now wants to install minimal heating in the building, hoping to use alternative energy in a later phase, ideally for the wider neighborhood. Parts of the attic will also be insulated. This restoration phase starts in October 2026 and will likely last six months. Two rear pillars in the choir will also be reinforced against subsidence during this phase.
Roof
The church roof needs replacement. In agreement with the city, works were carried out at the end of 2025 to make the roof watertight. Once watertight, insulation can be placed on the vaults, reducing roughly half of the church's heat loss. These insulation works will take place in 2026-2027 together with installation of a heating system.
Carillon
The carillon was under restoration in mid-2005. By the end of that year, works were expected to be completed and a new octave added. It is the oldest carillon in the city, which has four others. The core of the Vanden Gheyn carillon in Sint-Geertrui church dates back to the 18th century.
Video about the carillon
Interior
The interior of the church also needs attention. The most urgent area is the Chapel of the Seven Sorrows, on the right when entering through the portal. In the longer term, the church board also wants to restore the connection to the abbey wing that is still largely in ruins.