The Procession of Saint Gertrude in Nivelles

Saint Gertrude was born in 626 in Nivelles, into a wealthy family. Her mother Itta was co-founder of the Convent of Our Lady. Gertrude followed in her footsteps and became abbess at a young age. She was a woman of great intellect and compassion, who devoted her whole life to preserving knowledge and caring for the sick.

Under her leadership the monastery of Nivelles grew into a centre of learning and spirituality. She corresponded with other religious leaders. She protected the poor and supported the nuns in her care. When she died in 659, she was immediately venerated as a saint. Her body remained buried in Nivelles.

In the Middle Ages devotion to Saint Gertrude grew. Pilgrims came from far away to touch her relics. The city built larger churches and chapels. Around the seventeenth century a magnificent “car d’or” (golden chariot) was made. This was not a true golden chariot, but a vehicle decorated with gold and adorned with candelabra and ornamental sculptures.

In this chariot the statue of Saint Gertrude was placed. Each year, especially around her feast day (3 March), the chariot was carried through Nivelles in a great procession. Music played. Priests blessed the way. People came on their knees to venerate the saint.

The Tour of Saint Gertrude is now more than a thousand years old. In 2008 UNESCO recognised it as intangible heritage of humanity. It is one of the few processions in Europe that has continued unbroken for so long. Each year follows the same route through Nivelles’ streets, the same rituals, the same prayers.

Today thousands still come to Nivelles to witness the Tour. The golden chariot sways forward on wheels, drawn by a tractor, while priests sing and crowds bow. It is an unbroken bond with the Middle Ages, a moment when the past becomes tangible.