Averbode Abbey

Averbode Abbey is a Premonstratensian monastery located in the village of Averbode, part of the municipality of Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, within the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels in Belgium. The religious community was founded around 1134, making it one of the region's long-standing monastic institutions, though its history has not been continuous — the abbey was suppressed in 1797 and only reestablished in 1834.

What is the history behind the abbey?

Averbode's story mirrors the turbulent fate of many Western European monasteries at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. The suppression in 1797, a consequence of the political upheavals of that era, interrupted the community's presence for several decades. Its reestablishment in 1834 allowed the Premonstratensian canons to return and continue a monastic tradition that persists to this day.

A particularly distinctive chapter in the abbey's history is its publishing activity. Throughout the 20th century, the press operated by the abbey was one of Belgium's leading publishers of children's literature. This unusual combination of contemplative religious life and editorial enterprise illustrates how multifaceted the abbey's role in regional culture became — not merely a spiritual center, but an institution that reached readers far beyond its monastery walls.

What does the abbey church look like architecturally?

The abbey church is an architectural rarity — a peculiar synthesis of Baroque and Gothic styles, enriched with Renaissance ornamental details. This blend of forms sets the building apart from typical religious structures of its period, combining the austere massing of Gothic architecture with the ornamental richness of the Baroque.

The entire structure was built between 1664 and 1672, following a design by the Antwerp architect Jan Van den Eynde II. Two types of stone were used in its construction: iron sandstone from Langdorp and white sandstone from Gobertange. The combination of these materials gives the facades a distinctive two-toned texture, immediately noticeable when viewing the church's front. The church dominates the entire monastery complex, serving as its architectural centerpiece and most recognizable feature.

Where exactly is the abbey located?

Averbode lies within the administrative area of Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, in the Flemish Region, within the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels — one of the most significant ecclesiastical structures in Belgium. The site's approximate coordinates are 51.033° north latitude and 4.980° east longitude, placing it in the central part of the country.

Frequently asked questions

When was Averbode Abbey founded? The religious community was established around 1134.

Has the abbey operated continuously since its founding? No — it was suppressed in 1797 and only reestablished in 1834.

What architectural style does the abbey church represent? It combines Baroque and Gothic elements with Renaissance detailing, built between 1664 and 1672 to a design by Jan Van den Eynde II.

What materials was the church built from? Iron sandstone from Langdorp and white sandstone from Gobertange.

What else is the abbey known for besides religious life? Its publishing house, which throughout the 20th century was one of Belgium's leading publishers of children's books.