Although important works were undertaken until 1617, there remain few visible traces of the 16th century and even less of the 17th (except large parts of the vault, as explained in the previous page).

And yet, in the early 16th century, a large rebuilding and modernisation scheme was devised, aiming at suppressing the lower and older parts and raising them up to the same height as the nave. Hardly had work began when it stopped and the renewal of only a small part of the North arm of the transept was carried out. (Baptismal Chapel and Chapel of the Brotherhood of Charity).

 

In the former chapel, you can see high high pillars, the tops of which are decorated with putti (small naked children) announcing the Renaissance period. 1

In the second chapel, Late Gothic features the lierne and tierceron ribs that are so characteristc of the waning of the Middle Ages. 2

The vestry door evidently dates from the Renaissance with its two fluted columns and an acanthus-leaf frieze. On the floor above, but not open to vistors, the Treasure Room - containing no treasure any longer! Note its the wooden panels of its door carved in 'napkin-fold style'.   3

The vaults of the nave were completed in 1617 in Gothic style using older plans - at a time when Gothic has fallen into disuse; this is certainly the reason why the tracery somewhat lacks in vigour. Closed off by flat keystones, the ribs are supported by thin shafts arranged in groups of three. 4