The oldest church in Sint-Truiden is located in Diesterstraat and is a prime example of Romanesque architecture from the 11th century. It is the oldest church in the city, built by Abbot Adelardus II (1055–1082).
The three-aisled Romanesque basilica likely replaced an even older Carolingian church. Of Adelardus’ building, only the central nave remains. The choir and apse are later additions, while the Gothic transept dates from the 16th century. The side aisles were rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries on the original foundations.
Between 1961 and 1964, the church was restored by architect P. Vanmechelen under the supervision of Prof. R. Lemaire, returning it to its former appearance.
In its current form, the floor plan shows a basilica-shaped cruciform church with a small integrated western tower and a semicircular apse. Above the western entrance, in the tympanum, is a remarkable 13th-century Christ on the cross. The beautiful apse is emphasized externally by three arches and three recessed windows. The interior is simple and elegant. The central nave features round-arched arcades on square marlstone pillars, with clerestory windows above. With the exception of the half-dome above the choir, the rest of the building is covered by a flat wooden ceiling. The church treasury includes a reliquary of Saint Gangulphus from around 1700, a damaged 16th-century Annunciation group of three figures, and a similarly old polychrome triumphal cross.
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- Church Saint-Gangulfus
