Brussels‘ Cathedral of St.Michael and St.Gudula, a landmark of Belgian Gothic architecture, will mark its 800th anniversary with a series of celebrations in January 2026. Pope Francis has appointed Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin as his special envoy to Brussels for the occasion, underscoring the cathedral’s importance to the Catholic Church and its place within European history [[1]]. A solemn mass led by Archbishop Luc Terlinden is planned for January 11th, initiating a year-long commemoration of the cathedral’s legacy, commissioned in 1226 by Duke Henry II [[3]].
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, will represent Pope Francis at the 800th anniversary celebrations of the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral in Brussels, Belgium. The historic cathedral, commissioned in 1226 by Duke Henry II of Brabant, is a significant landmark in the heart of Europe and a testament to the region’s rich religious heritage.
A solemn mass marking the anniversary will be held on January 11, 2026, led by Archbishop Luc Terlinden of Mechelen-Brussels.
The Holy See announced on November 29, 2025, via the Osservatore Romano, that Cardinal Parolin has been appointed as the Pontifical Legate for the occasion.
Belgian royalty and other members of the episcopate are expected to attend the commemorative events. Beyond the January 11th service, a year-long program of cultural and spiritual events is planned, including concerts, conferences, and an exhibition detailing the cathedral’s history.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1226 at the behest of Duke Henry II, and it is dedicated to Saint Michael and Saint Gudula. The anniversary celebrations are expected to draw international attention to the cathedral’s architectural and historical importance.
