Walloon Brabant, the green escape… - Province du Brabant wallon

Always a pleasure to visitthe abbey…Essential poetryThe Villers AbbeySome members of the Cistercian communityin Clairvaux arrived in Villers tofound a new abbey in 1146. The monksand converts developed this marshylocation – hemmed in by steep slopes –using an ingenious hydraulic system ofsubterranean canals, mills and ponds.Built in the seventeenth century,the huge cloister is the centre ofthe monastery, surrounded by thebuildings constructed or converted bythe occupants for prayer, receptionsand manual work.The abbey reflects every architecturalstyle represented in the region. Animportant seat of power in the eighteenthcentury, the abbey was plunderedin 1794 and the monks left in 1796.Slowly but surely the abbey acquired itspresent atmosphere in which nature reigns.The ruins are a source of inspirationfor artists and writers : Victor Hugowas inspired by the romantic ambienceof the place on several occasions.The abbey mill now accommodatesexhibition spaces and a restaurant. Theabbey hosts a range of activities throughoutthe year, including family days,concerts, exhibitions, conferences andtheatre… An opportunity for escape !rsAbbaye de Villers-la-VilleRue de l’Abbaye 551495 Villers-la-Ville& +32.(0)71.88.09.80www.villers.beinfo@villers.beOpen daily. Novemberto March 10 am to 5 pm.April to October 10 am to 6 pm.Closed Tuesdays.19