In the Dumontwijk, the construction of the neo-Romanesque Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk (Church of Our Lady) was started in 1930-1932 on an undeveloped plot on the west side of the Zeelaan. In the basement of the church, the crypt of Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Fatima can be found. Six times a year, there is a pilgrimage to the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk to commemorate Fatima.
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History
After the First World War, tourism in De Panne was booming and there was a need for a church in the Zeelaan. The existing Sint-Pieterskerk and the chapel of the Oblate Fathers are too far from the new centre of our seaside resort. Since 1922, a small wooden chapel in the present Meeuwenlaan served as an emergency church during the summer months. This chapel was built by a Protestant English lady in memory of her son who died in the war.
In 1926, the parish of Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe was founded. The construction of the ‘Market School’ with a provisional chapel followed. The first mass celebrations took place in this chapel. In 1929, architects Jozef and Luc Viérin, together with contractor Georges Demolder, started building the presbytery and the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk with crypt. The church was consecrated in 1937. In 1947, the crypt was dedicated to Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Fatima.
Architecture
The Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk was built in neo-Romanesque style. Characteristic of this style are the sturdy tower, the robust walls and buttresses, the basilican elevation (a central nave and two side aisles) and the massive pillars and round arches. The Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk in De Panne was one of the precursors of the modern churches built on the Belgian west coast.
Interior
Upon entering the church, one's attention is immediately drawn to the hanging cross and the four marble altars. In contrast to most Romanesque churches, whose interior is usually dark, this church is very bright. Only the semicircular extension of the church is dark, but at the same time it has a beautifully painted dome.
The white marble altar in Carrara, made by Monique Mol, catches the full daylight and represents the seagull proclaiming the Good News. Many works of art and paintings adorn the church and it is well worth a visit.
How to get there?
How much does it cost?
Great news, admission is free!
When is it open?
From 09.00h to 17.00h
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