The church of Saint Dizier de Rhisnes (la Bruyère) Namur
Ancient tomb in the cemetery
The task of transcribing a cemetery consists of recording, preserving and making the most of the information engraved on the tombstones. Each inscription - whether a name, a date or an epitaph - is a fragment of memory, a testimony to the past and a precious source for historical and genealogical research.
The process begins with a systematic survey graves: locating the graves, photographing the monuments, then faithfully transcribing the inscriptions. This work requires rigour and care, as ancient stones are sometimes altered by time, making the texts difficult to decipher.
Once transcribed, this data is structured and entered into our «Isadora» database» (surnames, first names, dates of birth and death, particulars, professions, titles, etc.). This order enables researchers, descendants and heritage enthusiasts to access the information easily.
Over and above the practical dimension, the transcription of cemeteries plays an important role. heritage and remembrance :
It saves endangered inscriptions.
It brings past generations back to life.
EIt sheds light on the evolution of funerary practices, funerary art and local history.
In this way, the cemetery is no longer just a place of remembrance, but also a place of worship. book of stone where each grave tells a story, which transcription makes it possible to preserve and pass on.
Important note:
The transcription of the gravestones in the cemetery concerns only the old monuments that are still present and legible.
Only decipherable inscriptions were taken. Wherever possible, we have verified the information on the basis of the birth certificates available on the website AGATHA.
However, some errors may remain, as the information engraved on the monuments is not always accurate or complete.
NAMES OF PEOPLE FOUND ON MONUMENTS
FUNERARY MONUMENTS AT RHISNES CEMETERY (NAMUR) 1
⛪ The church of Saint-Didier in Rhisnes
First mentions already mentioned in 1381 as «Saint Dezier church in Rienez».
Current building :
Built between 1841 and 1845, in a style neo-roman and neo-classical.
Bell tower rebuilt in 1948 after being destroyed during the Second World War.
Features :
Sober basilical plan, typical of the XIXᵉ century.
Massive tower topped by a modern spire.
Inside: secondary altars dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph.
✝️ Saint Didier (or Dizier, Desiderius)
Bishop of Langres (in Burgundy) to IIIᵉ century.
Martyred around 355 (according to tradition), killed by invaders while trying to protect his people.
His cult spread throughout medieval Europe, particularly in France and Belgium.
Often invoked as a protector of harvests and against calamities.
His feast day is celebrated on 23 May.
