The church's tower was intended to be one of the tallest in the world at 169 meters but was never completed due to unstable soil conditions.
The HoloLens experience allows visitors to see the original, destroyed stone rood screen reconstructed in 3D within the choir.
The church contains the tomb of Duke Henry I, who granted Leuven its first city charter in 1211.
The interior holds two works by Dieric Bouts, 'The Last Supper' and 'The Martyrdom of St. Erasmus', which have remained in the building since they were commissioned in the 15th century.
The building is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site under the Belfries of Belgium and France listing.
Saint Peter's Church is a Brabantine Gothic landmark situated on Leuven's Grote Markt. The structure features a distinctive triple-gabled facade and an unfinished tower system that remains one of the city's most recognizable silhouettes. Its interior houses the M Leuven museum’s collection of liturgical art, notably 'The Last Supper' by Dieric Bouts. The church also functions as a repository for the tomb of Duke Henry I of Brabant. Recent digital preservation efforts include an augmented reality 'HoloLens' experience that restores the original rood screen. The building was significantly damaged during World War I and II, requiring extensive restoration efforts. It currently serves both religious functions and as a permanent venue for significant Flemish Primitives art.
From the center of the Grote Markt, capturing the church facade aligned with the historic Town Hall.
Reserve the augmented reality (HoloLens) experience in advance to view the digital reconstruction of the lost rood screen.
Pay attention to the ambulatory chapels, which contain the majority of the permanent religious art collection.
Look for the 'Fiere Margriet' statue located near the church exterior, which commemorates a local folk legend.
Do not overlook the small, darkened side chapels where the most significant altarpieces are displayed.
Closed to tourists during certain religious services and major liturgical holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume and cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect, as it is an active place of worship.
