Sint-Jan-Evangelistkerk

Sint-Jan-Evangelistkerk stands in Wilrijk, a district of Antwerp, as an Art Deco church from the interwar period. Frans Peeters designed the three-aisled pseudo-basilica, built between 1932 and 1936 for Valaar’s parish. Straight lines, stepped volumes, brick, concrete, and natural stone shape its exterior.

A partly embedded square tower rises along the southwest side, while the building faces southeast. Inside, massive pillars separate the broad central nave from its narrower side aisles. An angular concrete-and-wood vault leads towards the choir, marked by a large pointed arch. That architectural arrangement directs attention to the main altar.

An oak organ with broad panels adds a much older detail to the interior. The instrument dates from the mid-nineteenth century, came from Mechelen, and reached this church around 1935. Restoration has repaired the facade, roofs, stained glass, walls, vaults, and floors in several phases. Additional glazing protects the stained glass, while lightning protection and fire detection serve the basement and attic.