A look inside the abbey walls

The eventful history of Averbode Abbey dates back to its foundation in 1134 at the behest of Arnold II, Count of Loon. Although prayer and contemplation reigns supreme within the abbey walls, over the centuries the Norbertines face many trials. Nevertheless, the abbey shows great resilience and neither the plague, looting, fires, lightning strikes nor the French revolution can bring the Averbode Norbertines to their knees.

The 19th century finally heralds a new period of prosperity for the abbey. Monastic life resumes and the abbey develops into an inspiring regional hub for missionary work, book publications and education. The renewed enthusiasm leads to the first brewing activities in the 20th century.

Today the Averbode community consists of 70 members. They are modern-day Norbertines, loyal to the original ideals of prayer and pastoral commitment on the one hand but also ambitious in terms of the continued development of the experience centre and the development of a varied range of beers, cheeses, bread, gingerbread and speculaas.

Rich history

1134

Rich history

Averbode Abbey boasts a rich history that meanwhile spans a millennium. It was founded in 1134 at the behest of Arnold II, Count of Loon and its activities soon included agriculture to ensure its viability. Over the centuries however, the abbey faced many trials such as looting, fires and the plague. Indeed, in the late 18th century it was even sold and demolished.

Rich history

1850

Recent history

From the 19th century onwards the abbey began to flourish once more. Monastic life resumed and the abbey became the hub of many activities such as missionary work and a publishing house. In the 20th century, the Norbertines founded several schools. Today the future looks bright for Averbode Abbey, thanks among others to a wide range of products and a brand-new experience centre.

Rich history

2013

Teaming up with Brewery Huyghe

In 2013 we started brewing the Averbode abbey beer in close collaboration with Brewery Huyghe. The unique dry hopping technique gives a special hoppy flavour to this blonde abbey beer.

Visit the abbey

CURIOUS TO SEE INSIDE THE ABBEY WALLS?

Would you like to visit the abbey? You are more than welcome! By day the abbey courtyard and the abbey church are open to the public. Every Sunday afternoon between Easter and All Saints there is a tour of the abbey for individual visitors at 3 pm.

Groups can also book a visit at other times of the week. Group visits are allowed depending on the possibilities of the community at any given time. Would you like to know more about group visits, group reflection and our open days?

Plan your visit