Origin of the onion dome
The onion dome gives the collegiate church its distinctive character and is a source of pride for the people of Dinant. Yet its origin is rather accidental. In the 13th century, it seems that only the south tower of the façade had a Gothic spire, whose exact form is unknown. It was lost during the conflicts that marked the end of the Middle Ages.
In 1565, the town acquired an hour bell and a small carillon of thirteen bells, which it intended to place at the top of the aldermen’s tower built in the middle of the bridge. A local carpenter was commissioned to build an onion-shaped belfry in the fashion of the time. It soon became clear, however, that the building’s foundations could not support the handsome structure. The religious and civic authorities therefore agreed to place the dome at the top of the church façade. The church thus acquired a picturesque tower whose profile had little connection with its original Gothic character.