Chapel of the Pilgrims Hostel of Saint James

Via Julianus 2, Tongeren

Heilige Agnes, Meester van de Eyckiaanse vrouwenfiguren

Stadsarchief Tongeren

A female figure in 3D inspired by the work of Jan van Eyck is a true rarity. Honour her with a visit in the atmospheric Sint-Jacobsgasthuiskapel in Tongeren.

Chapel of the Pilgrims Hostel of Saint James

The former Sint-Jacobsgasthuis (Pilgrims Hostel of Saint James) in Tongeren was probably founded in the 12th century as a hostel for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostella. The Sint-Jacobsgasthuiskapel which dates back to 1660 is all that remains of the 17th century construction phase. Between 1846 and 1867 a new complex of hospice buildings was built around the chapel in Neoclassical style. The brick built chapel consists of a small hall church with four bays and a chancel end. The Liège artist Jean Delcour designed the Baroque funerary monument (1697) for Maria de Berchem, Countess de Hinnisdael, which was commissioned by her husband Frans van Hinnisdael, Lord of Betho.

Saint Agnes

The 15th century oak statue of Saint Agnes is attributed to the anonymous Maasland Master of Eyckian female figurines. It is one of the most refined examples of a style that brings to mind the painting of both the Master of Flémalle (Robert Campin) and Jan van Eyck. The worship of the chaste Agnes resulted in monastic orders being named after her during this period. Her followers were so-called Agnites.

Tongeren Jean Del Cour Grafmonument voor Marie Anne van Berchem

Baroque Funerary Monument Maria de Berchem - Jean Del Cour (1627-1707)

The brick built hospice chapel consists of a small hall church with four bays and a chancel end. Be sure to look up at the ceiling. The interior is vaulted by cross-ribbed vaults between rounded transverse arches. The Liège artist Jean Delcour designed the Baroque funerary monument (1697) for Maria de Berchem, Countess de Hinnisdael, which was commissioned by her husband Frans van Hinnisdael, Lord of Betho. Note the wavy dress worn by the countess, which gives the impression of being light and airy even though it is sculpted in marble. Two faithful dogs guard the tomb next to a beautifully crafted coat of arms.

Stad Tongeren

Practical information

Address

Via Julianus 2

3700 Tongeren

Belgium

View directions

Opening hours

From 1 October to 28 February: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday open from 08:30 to 12.00 hrs and from 13.00 to 17.00 hrs, Tuesday from 10.00 to 12.00 hrs and from 13.00 to 17.00 hrs, Saturday from 10.00 to 16.00 hrs and on public holidays from 10.00 to 14.00 hrs.
From 1 March to 30 September: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday open from 08:30 to 12.00 hrs and from 13.00 to 17.00 hrs, Tuesday from 10.00 to 12.00 hrs and from 13.00 to 17.00 hrs, Saturday from 10.00 to 16.00 hrs and on Sundays and public holidays from 10.00 to 14.00 hrs.
July and August: Open Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17.00 hrs, Saturday from 10.00 to 16.00 hrs and on Sundays and public holidays from 10.00 to 14.00 hrs.