With church attendance falling, many Belgian churches are being given a new lease of life. In one church in Mechelen, visitors now raise a glass instead of raising a prayer.
The Sint Jozef church in the heart of the picturesque borough of Battel has been turned into a sanctuary for lovers of fine beverages and gastronomy. Going by the name Batteliek, this haven of taste and tradition invites visitors on a journey through the art of brewing and distilling, where every drop tells a story of artisanry and quality.
Due to a drop in church attendance and the financial challenges facing the Catholic Church, many places of worship in Belgium are being repurposed. While over 80% of the population was nominally Catholic in the 1950s, this figure was estimated to be about 50% in 2022. As a result, a growing number of churches are no longer needed for worship.
Batteliek is one striking example of a transformation that has gone down a storm with locals and tourists alike. Whether one is a seasoned aficionado or a curious explorer, Batteliek extends a warm invitation to all who seek a unique and enriching experience.
Blending passion and tradition
Affectionately known as the little brother of the esteemed Mechelen brewery Het Anker, Batteliek is more than just a microbrewery, distillery, or lemonade factory. It stands as an homage to artisanal skill, a testament to the use of pure ingredients, and a salute to Belgium's rich heritage of craft beverages.
Stepping into Batteliek, one is met with gleaming copper kettles and lead iron stained-glass windows. The air is filled with the aroma of delectable brews.
"We see Batteliek as a celebration of our brewing heritage, a place where passion and tradition merge to create unforgettable experiences for our guests," a spokesperson for the microbrewery told The Brussels Times.
Craft beers, lovingly brewed with expertise, exude characterful tones that dance on the tongue, while spirits and lemonades surprise with refined aromas crafted from the finest ingredients.
"Our goal is to offer not just beverages, but experiences that linger in the memory," added the spokesperson. "Each glass poured at Batteliek is an adventure waiting to be savoured."
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YetBatteliek is more than just a venue for drinks. It serves as a rendezvous point for bon vivants, where families, friends, and colleagues come together to relish good company and indulgent refreshments. Visitors can bask in the tranquillity of the cosy garden, enveloped by lush greenery, or delve into the secrets of the craft through engaging distilling or brewing workshops.
Batteliek also provides a restobar where high-end bar snacks and finger food mix with innovative burgers and traditional fare on the extensive menu. "Batteliek is a place where people can escape the mundane and immerse themselves in the pleasures of life," the spokesperson said. "We aim to foster a sense of community and camaraderie, where every visit feels like coming home."
