ABBEY OF ST. MAURICE AND ST. MAURICE ABBEY
Erected between 1908 and 1910 by Dutch architect JF Klomp and restored in 1945-1946, this magnificent Benedictine abbey, set back high above the town, can be seen for miles around. The monks live a life of prayer and meditation according to the rule of St. Benedict.
The abbey is neo-Gothic in style and, unlike the other buildings in the town it overlooks, is not covered in Ardennes slate but in red tiles.
Although a visit to the site is limited, there is easy access to the crypt to the left of the main entrance, with an interesting exhibition on monastic life (documents, photos, etc.).
The site is also a place for spiritual retreats (only men are accommodated at the abbey). An outside building houses a gîte for groups. There's also a store selling coffee and apple juice from the abbey, and a bookshop specializing in sacred art.
Suggested itinerary. Although it's relatively easy to get here by car, it's best to take the Abbey ascent (approx. 800 m uphill), which can be reached from the church of Sainte-Come and Saint-Damien, in the town center.
Guided tours. Every first Monday of the month, after daily mass, the Tourist Office organizes a guided tour led by a monk from the abbey, covering the history of the building and daily life (booking required).
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Members' reviews on ABBEY OF ST. MAURICE AND ST. MAURICE ABBEY
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Vente de produits de l'Abbaye (artisanat et jus de pommes). Visite gratuite et libre sur la vie monastique (l'exposition mériterait d'être modernisée mais intéressante malgré tout).
Bâtiment magnifique!