The Giant of Brunssum
A Medieval Discovery in the Heart of Brunssum
At the corner of Kerkstraat (formerly Kerkengats) and Dorpstraat, once an important medieval road, lies one of Brunssum’s most fascinating stories: the Giant of Brunssum.
In 1992, archaeologists found an unusually large skeleton here—almost two meters tall! This was remarkable for the Middle Ages, as people were generally much shorter. This discovery makes the site a place full of secrets, legends, and history.
St. Gregory’s Church: A Landmark of Brunssum
The history of St. Gregory’s Church dates back to the 11th century. The current church is actually the fourth one built here. The first church stood for over 700 years at the site of “Het Blazoen” before it was demolished in 1840. Later, a community center called Unitas was built in its place. The third church, located where De Drossaard now stands, had to be demolished in 1962 due to mining damage.
The current church, designed by the famous architect Gottfried Böhm, is inspired by a Roman basilica and tells the story of the biblical Book of Exodus in its architecture. Its striking tower can be seen from afar and is a key landmark of Catholic Brunssum.
The Tradition of Foot Washing
In front of the church, a statue recalls an ancient biblical tradition: as a sign of respect and hospitality, hosts would wash the hands and feet of their guests before they entered. St. Gregory the Great, a 6th-century pope, is the patron saint of Brunssum. St. Brigid was also honored here, and until the 1960s, pilgrims visited the church for a special pilgrimage in her name.
Roman Influences
Archaeological finds near this site reveal traces of Roman life, including stone urns once used for cremation ashes and remains of a large Roman building near the Bronspot. At Dorpstraat, you can still see the rose garden that once belonged to a 19th-century convent.
Noble Families
Between the 14th and 17th centuries, the noble Vos family had their own burial crypt in the church. In the 17th century, the De Negri brothers took over the estate by marrying into the Vos family. In the 19th century, some of their descendants became mayors of Brunssum. The Bex and Van Weerst families also left their mark on the town.
Experience It Yourself!
Use the Archeo Route app to explore the unique stories of the virtual archaeologist. From the Giant of Brunssum to the impressive St. Gregory’s Church—discover the history of this remarkable place for yourself!
PLEASE NOTE: The location of the spear is at the intersection Dorpstraat/kerkstraat, near the St. Gregory's Church.
Find also other Archeo Route Limburg locations