The Saint-André church of Lille is located rue Royale, in the old center (the Old Lille). It was built in the 18th century in a Baroque style according to the plans of the architect Thomas-Joseph Gombert. First devolved to the Carmelites, it took its current name in 1796 after the abolition of religious orders.
The site was initiated in 1701 and ended in 1758 after an interruption due to the War of the Spanish Succession. Note that the current bell tower dates from 1889.
The building is renowned for its rich liturgical furniture and the quality of its decorations (paintings, stained glass). Thus, inside, we observe that the aisles are vaulted in the form of seven small brick domes. The paintings on the vaults date from the 19th century. The stained-glass windows come from the workshop of Charles Gaudelet (19th century). The nave contains a sculpted pulpit in the Baroque style, and a number of paintings signed in particular Jacques Van Oost, Arnould de Vuez and Otto Venius (who remained famous as the master of Rubens). In the choir, in addition to the majestic high altar, the busts of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in white marble by the Antwerp sculptor Arthur Quellin (17th century) are very beautiful.
The church is also famous because of the fact that Charles de Gaulle, a native of the district, was baptized there.
Open Saturday and Wednesday to Saturday during school holidays. Guided tours possible. Inquire on +33 3 20 55 45 92.
