Collection of monastic order costumes from historical Belgium

Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho

Our Lady Of The Rose Jericho Brussels: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

In the heart of Brussels, Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho (Notre-Dame de la Rose Plantée à Jéricho) stands as a testament to centuries of Marian devotion, artistic achievement, and the city’s vibrant urban history. This guide presents a comprehensive overview of the church and its former convent, offering visitors insights into its storied past, remarkable architecture, enduring cultural significance, and essential information for planning a visit (Catholic Encyclopedia, Inventaire du Patrimoine Architectural, Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage).

Whether you are drawn by the church’s luminous stained-glass rose window, its guild chapels, or the legacy of the Augustinian canonesses who fostered a tradition of learning and manuscript production, Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho provides a multifaceted experience. With its central location, free admission, accessible facilities, and proximity to Brussels’ most iconic landmarks, it is an essential stop for visitors seeking to connect with the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage (visit.brussels).

Historical plate depicting the monastery of Our Lady of the Rose Planted in Jericho, Brussels

Historical engraving depicting a shooting incident between Austrian soldiers and Brabant volunteers at the Grain Market in Brussels on September 20, 1787, during the Brabant Revolution

Historic illustration of Jericho Monastery from the 15th to 18th century

Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Artistic and Intellectual Heritage
Nearby Attractions
FAQ
Conclusion
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Foundation

The origins of Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho can be traced to the 14th century, when an artisans’ and merchants’ guild founded a small Gothic chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, invoking the symbolism of the “Rose Planted in Jericho”—a powerful emblem of resurrection and hope (Catholic Encyclopedia). The community grew in importance, eventually uniting two earlier religious groups in 1456 under the patronage of Philip III the Good and Isabella of Portugal (Brussels City Archives).

Architectural Evolution

The church’s architecture reflects its dynamic history:

Gothic Beginnings: The original chapel, with its pointed arches and ribbed vaults, set the foundation for later expansions.
Renaissance and Baroque Additions: Enlarged in the 15th and 16th centuries, the church acquired a bell tower, richly decorated chapels, and a celebrated organ (installed 1582). Baroque embellishments, including altarpieces and frescoes, were added in the 17th and 18th centuries (Inventaire du Patrimoine Architectural).
Revolution and Reconstruction: The French Revolution led to secularization and loss of treasures. Restoration efforts in the 19th century, led by Jean-Baptiste Bethune, revived much of the church’s stained glass and the iconic rose window (Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage).
Modern Era: The church survived wartime damage and was designated a protected monument in 1975.

Religious and Cultural Significance

Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho became a center of Marian devotion and local piety, symbolized by the Rose of Jericho—a plant associated with resurrection and hope in Christian tradition (Botanical Society of Belgium). The church hosted annual processions and played a vital role in Brussels’ religious and community life, fostering manuscript production and literacy among its canonesses.

Notable Events

Miracle of the Rose (1521): A procession invoking rain during a drought, believed to have resulted in a miracle and commemorated annually (Inventaire du Patrimoine Architectural).
French Revolution: Closure and repurposing as a warehouse, later restored in the early 19th century (Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage).
World War II: Survived bombing; postwar restoration secured its status as a heritage site.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Church:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission is free; donations are welcome to support upkeep and community activities.
Guided Tours:
- Available on weekends and by appointment (small fee applies). Book via the Brussels heritage website (visit.brussels).

Location and Access

Address: Rue de la Rose 12, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Public Transport: Metro lines 1 & 5 (De Brouckère or Gare Centrale), tram lines, and several bus routes.
Parking: Limited street parking; public garages within walking distance.

Accessibility

Step-free entrance and ramps at the main door.
Designated seating for visitors with limited mobility.
Accessible restrooms available; contact staff for assistance.

Facilities and Etiquette

Multilingual information panels (French, Dutch, English).
Gift kiosk with religious items, including Rose of Jericho souvenirs (plant-a-holic.com).
Modest dress required; hats off inside; maintain respectful silence, especially during services.
Photography permitted (no flash or tripods).

Events and Photography

Annual Procession of the Rose: Held each May, draws both pilgrims and tourists for a vibrant community celebration.
Mass Times: Sundays at 11:00 AM; open to all.
Concerts and Cultural Events: Check parish website or local listings for schedules.

Guided Tours

Arrange through the tourist office or heritage organizations for in-depth exploration of the church’s art, architecture, and history. Tours are available in English, French, and Dutch.

Best Times to Visit

March–May / September–October: Pleasant weather, moderate crowds.
Summer (June–August): Lively atmosphere, more tourists.
Winter: Cozy, with festive holiday decorations and events.

Practical Tips

Carry some cash for small purchases or donations.
Early mornings and late afternoons are quieter.
Consult the official tourism website for updates on visiting hours or special closures (visit.brussels).

Artistic and Intellectual Heritage

Rose Window: 15th-century stained glass masterpiece illustrating Marian and Jericho themes.
Marian Altarpiece: Early 16th-century polychrome wood sculpture with the Rose of Jericho motif.
Guild Chapels: Adorned with paintings and sculptures celebrating Brussels’ historic trades.
Manuscript Legacy: Thirty-six manuscripts, mostly pre-1550, survive from the convent’s canonesses, preserved in institutions such as the Royal Library of Belgium (KBR). These works reflect the site’s significance as a center for women’s literacy and spiritual literature (Royal Library of Belgium).

Nearby Attractions

Grand Place: UNESCO World Heritage site and Brussels’ central square.
Museum of the City of Brussels: Exhibits on local history and culture.
Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert: Historic shopping arcade with cafés and boutiques.
Notre Dame du Sablon: Gothic church renowned for its architecture and stained glass.
Place du Petit Sablon: Picturesque garden featuring statues of medieval guilds (theflashpacker.net).
Royal Palace of Brussels: Open to the public in summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Entry is free; guided tours require a small fee.

Q: Is the church accessible for those with disabilities?
A: Yes, ramps and accessible restrooms are provided.

Q: Can I attend religious services?
A: Yes, regular Mass is held on Sundays at 11:00 AM.

Q: Are guided tours available in multiple languages?
A: Yes, tours are offered in English, French, and Dutch.

Q: What remains of the original convent?
A: No physical convent buildings remain, but the church and its manuscript legacy endure.

Q: Are there nearby places to eat or shop?
A: Yes, numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops are located nearby.

Conclusion

Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho is more than a historic church—it is a living symbol of faith, cultural resilience, and artistic achievement in Brussels. From its medieval roots and architectural grandeur to its ongoing role as a parish and heritage site, it offers visitors a unique window into the city’s spiritual and cultural identity. Whether you come for quiet reflection, to admire its stained glass, or to immerse yourself in centuries of tradition, make this remarkable site a highlight of your Brussels journey.

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