ARCHITECT, Flemish
(active 15th century in Mechelen)

General view

15th century
Photo
Grote Markt and Sint-Romboutskathedraal, Mechelen

St. Rumbold's Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Rumbold, Christian missionary and martyr who had founded an abbey nearby. Construction of the church started shortly after 1200, and it was consecrated in 1312, when part had become usable. From 1324 onwards the flying buttresses and revised choir structure acquired characteristics that would distinguish Brabantine Gothic from French Gothic. After the city fire of 1342, the Master Mason Jean d'Oisy managed repairs and continued this second phase, which by the time of his death in 1375 formed the prototype for that High Gothic style. His successors finished the vaults of the nave by 1437, and those of the choir by 1451. During the final phase of 1452-1520, the tower was erected. In the early 16th century the upper part of the tower was abandoned for financial reasons.