
Collegiate Church of Saint-Étienne
A historic 16th-century church with a surprising interior, offering scenic valley views and a poignant exhibition on its role in the Battle of Waterlo...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Collegiate Church of Saint-Étienne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 16th-century church with a surprising interior, offering scenic valley views and a poignant exhibition on its role in the Battle of Waterloo.
"A beautiful church steeped in history, serving as a hospital after the Battle of Waterloo."

📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the scenic overlook of the Hain Valley from the church grounds. Perfect for photos!
🕰️ Explore the History
Take time to visit the exhibition about its role in the Battle of Waterloo. It's quite impactful.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Overlooking Hain Valley
Exterior view
Enjoy panoramic views of the Hain Valley and Braine-l'Alleud's main square from this historic church.

Battle of Waterloo Exhibition
Behind the church
Discover a poignant exhibition detailing the church's role as a makeshift hospital after the Battle of Waterloo.

Impressive Interior Architecture
Inside the church
Experience a surprisingly spacious interior, built with local sandstone and brick, that appears larger than its exterior suggests.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Historical Context
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the scenic overlook of the Hain Valley from the church grounds. Perfect for photos!
🕰️ Explore the History
Take time to visit the exhibition about its role in the Battle of Waterloo. It's quite impactful.
✨ Experience Serenity
Attend a service, like Christmas mass, for a warm and welcoming spiritual experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the scenic overlook of the Hain Valley from the church grounds. Perfect for photos!
🕰️ Explore the History
Take time to visit the exhibition about its role in the Battle of Waterloo. It's quite impactful.
✨ Experience Serenity
Attend a service, like Christmas mass, for a warm and welcoming spiritual experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Collegiate Church of Saint-Étienne for its historical depth, particularly its role during the Battle of Waterloo, and its surprisingly spacious interior. The scenic views over the Hain Valley are also a significant draw. While generally well-received, some may find the exhibition details brief.
"Super"
Idelina Cabral de Assis
"Visit to the parish with a school group from CCM (DOA).
A church steeped in history..."
Yvan VAN BERKEL
"A beautiful church that appears larger inside than it appears from the outside. It overlooks the Hain Valley and the main square of Braine-l'Alleud. The foundations are made of local sandstone and brick.
It served as a hospital during the Battle of Waterloo. A small exhibition about this care is located behind the church."
Bernard Hecq
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is centrally located in Braine-l'Alleud, overlooking the main square. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options may also be available; check local bus routes for the most convenient access.
Yes, there are typically parking facilities available in the vicinity of the church and the main square of Braine-l'Alleud, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and atmosphere. However, there might be a small fee for specific exhibitions, such as the one detailing its role in the Battle of Waterloo.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the exhibition. It's advisable to check the official local tourism website or contact the parish directly for the most up-to-date information on visiting times.
Yes, the exhibition detailing the church's use as a hospital during the Battle of Waterloo is accessible. It's usually located behind the church and may have specific opening hours and a small admission fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a surprisingly spacious interior constructed from local sandstone and brick. The architecture itself is a highlight, offering a sense of history and grandeur.
Absolutely! A significant exhibit behind the church focuses on its history as a makeshift hospital during the Battle of Waterloo, providing a unique perspective on this historical event.
The church offers a beautiful vantage point overlooking the Hain Valley and the main square of Braine-l'Alleud, making it a great spot for photography and enjoying the local scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
As the church is located in the main square of Braine-l'Alleud, you'll find several restaurants, cafes, and brasseries nearby offering various dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers great shots with the town square and valley views. Inside, the architectural details and stained glass windows provide excellent photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Sanctuary Through Time
One of the most compelling aspects of the church's past is its service as a hospital during the tumultuous Battle of Waterloo. Following the intense conflict, the church opened its doors to tend to the countless wounded soldiers. This humanitarian effort is commemorated by a small, but impactful, exhibition located behind the church, offering visitors a poignant glimpse into this chapter of its history. This dual identity – as a spiritual sanctuary and a place of refuge – makes a visit particularly resonant.
Visitors often remark on how the church appears larger on the inside than its exterior suggests, a testament to its thoughtful design. The views it commands over the Hain Valley and the bustling main square of Braine-l'Alleud add another layer to its appeal. Whether you're drawn by its historical significance, its architectural beauty, or its scenic location, the Collegiate Church of Saint-Étienne offers a rich and layered experience.





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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit