St. Theodard Church: A Unique Church Built for Coal Miners

Located in the historic heart of Beringen, the St. Theodard Church stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s coal mining heritage. Designed by renowned Belgian architect Henri Lacoste, this remarkable structure was constructed between 1939 and 1943, not just as a place of worship, but as a monument to the miners who helped shape the town.

Built for the Miners of Beringen

With the opening of the Beringen coal mine, a need arose for spiritual support for the growing mining community. In response, the mining company funded and built St. Theodard Church as a parish church for its workers.

Unlike traditional churches, St. Theodard’s design is deeply symbolic. The church’s dark interior galleries, resembling underground mine shafts, were created to reflect the realities of the miners’ lives. This architectural choice makes the church not only unique in style but also emotionally resonant for those connected to the town’s industrial roots.

Architectural Features & Symbolism

• Architect: Henri Lacoste, known for his use of symbolism in ecclesiastical architecture
• Period of Construction: 1939–1943
• Architectural Style: Modernist with industrial influence, focused on simplicity, durability, and spiritual symbolism
• Galleries: Dark, tunnel-like passages inside the church that mirror coal mine infrastructure, offering a solemn and reflective atmosphere
• Stained Glass in Concrete: One of the church’s most distinctive features, instead of delicate frames, the stained-glass windows are embedded in concrete, blending artistic beauty with industrial materials.

This fusion of art, spirituality, and mining symbolism makes the church a rare example of how religious architecture can be deeply rooted in local working-class identity.

Location & Visiting Info

Location: St. Theodarduskerk, Kerkplein, 3580 Beringen, Belgium

Best time to visit: Daytime, when the stained-glass windows are beautifully lit by natural light

Nearby Attractions: Be-MINE site, Beringen Mining Museum, Adventure Mountain, and Kioskplein

Why Visit the St. Theodard Church?

St. Theodard Church is more than a religious building, it is a deeply symbolic tribute to the coal miners of Beringen. From its tunnel-inspired architecture to its innovative stained-glass windows set in concrete, every element of this church tells a story of hard work, community, and resilience.

If you're an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or simply exploring the rich industrial heritage of Flanders, a visit to St. Theodard Church offers a unique perspective on the spiritual side of Belgium’s mining history.