Hello fellow Local Guides!
Most of my country walks in Belgium seem to start or end at a village church. But apparently, there is always room for one more.
On a beautiful recent day, I took a hike from Tongeren to Borgloon with my destination fixed on a place that has been on my bucket list for months: the famous "See-Through Church”. Its official, though rather clunky, English title is “Reading Between The Lines,” but the locals know it simply as the Doorkijkkerk. I prefer to just call it the See-Through Church.
This is not a traditional sanctuary; it is a profound artistic reflection on space and landscape, built by the visionary Belgian architects Pieterjan Gijs and Arnout Van Vaerenbergh (working together as Gijs Van Vaerenbergh).
The Magic of a Solid Spirit: When Form Defies Physics
From afar, the church looks substantial, a classic silhouette against the sky. Its presence is solid. Yet, as I got closer and changed my angle, the magic began. The 100 layers of stacked steel, standing 10 meters high, slided into alignment, and the landscape poured right through the structure. At certain moments, it almost seems to dissolve completely into the green fields of the Haspengouw region.
What makes this clever is the architects’ use of horizontal layers separated by empty gaps, a technique that ensures the building does not obstruct the view, but instead frames the countryside in perfect rectangular boxes when looking from the inside out . This is architecture that truly plays with perception and defies the laws of physics.
The Question of Hidden Meaning
Is there a hidden message? The architects themselves are keen to avoid giving the space any preconceived meanings or making a religious statement. They prefer that “the space in between the form leaves room for interpretation.” It is a space designed for emptiness and personal contemplation, and for me, that was part of its deeply spiritual beauty.
Local Guide Note:* This is also a popular spot! When I was there, there was a professional photo shoot underway with a male model, the space makes for a truly unique backdrop.*
Finding the Hidden Treasure: A Practical Guide
Finding the Doorkijkkerk is part of the experience, as Belgium likes to keep its treasures slightly hidden! There are no large, flashing signposts. The small directional signs are easy to miss, and finding the main road can be the trickiest bit of the visit!
Once you find it, it is worth the effort:
- Parking: There is a dedicated
parking area right in the center (Image 13), from which the site is easily accessible. - Accessibility: As a passionate advocate for accessibility, I am happy to report that this site is fully
wheelchair accessible directly from the parking lot, though assistance may be needed on the dirt paths. - Amenities: The site is also
pet-friendly, great for families, and perfect for a break. - Rest Stop: You will find lovely covered picnic areas with benches and trash bins (Image 10, Image 11, Image 16) for a relaxing stop before continuing your hike.
Beyond the Structure
"Reading Between The Lines" is more than just an art installation or a photographer’s dream; it is an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking beauty, perspective, or a quiet moment in nature. For me, it was a recharged spirit.
It reminded me that the most beautiful places aren’t always the most famous ones; sometimes, they are the ones waiting quietly right next to you, ready to defy your perspective the moment you walk in.
Stay inspired, stay kind, and keep finding your own invisible moments!
What to See Nearby to Make a Day of It
A visit to the church sculpture itself won’t take longer than an hour, but Limburg has so much to offer. Here are a few other incredible nearby places to complete your day trip:
- The impressive Grand Commandery Alden-Biesen (Herenstraat 89, 3740 Bilzen)
- A serene walk around Alden-Biesen
- De Maten Nature Reserve (Heaths, ponds, and woods)
- For a nature adventure, Belgium’s only national park: The Hoge Kempen National Park
You can check my detailed Google Maps review of this place right here .
