The history of the cathedral stretches back to the 11th century. At that time, there was already a Romanesque church on the site. An outline of that building is now marked on the current floor of the cathedral, following its most recent restoration in the late 20th century. The current edifice, dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries, is a compendium of the development of Brabantine Gothic architecture. The building's importance is clear from the fact that the vast choir could accommodate 22 canons. While the church was only elevated to cathedral status in 1961, it has always played a leading role in the history of Brussels. It was the principal church of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, who made Brussels the capital of his empire. Governors attended thanksgiving masses here. Napoleon, on passing through Brussels, also paid it a visit, as did King William I of the Netherlands on his coronation day, and Belgium's monarchs still come here on the day of their swearing-in ceremony. Replete with stained-glass windows and sculptures, the cathedral remains the backdrop for royal weddings and events such as official funerals. Day after day, tourists and worshippers alike congregate in this unique building, steeped in history. (Listed 05/03/1936)