Tucked away in Leuven, a quiet chapel holds the remains of one of the most revered figures in Catholic history: Father Damien, the priest who devoted his life to caring for those suffering from leprosy on the Hawaiian island of Molokai.
Visitors to the crypt, inside Saint Anthony’s Chapel, are met with an atmosphere of serene reverence. Simple yet solemn, the space invites reflection on the sacrifices of a man who left home and comfort to live among the marginalized, ultimately succumbing to the very disease he fought against. The chapel stands as a testament to compassion, dedication, and courage—a hidden corner of Leuven where history and humanity converge.