Bornem Abbey

Bornem Abbey is a Cistercian monastery located in the town of Bornem, in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, within the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels. It holds a distinctive place in the religious landscape of the region, as it is the only Cistercian abbey of Common Observance within the boundaries of this archdiocese.

Where does the abbey's story begin?

The present-day abbey is the direct successor of the former St. Bernard's Abbey in Hemiksem, a community whose original monastery was destroyed during the French Revolution. The revolutionary period, which swept across much of what is now Belgium, led to the suppression and destruction of numerous religious institutions — the fate of the Hemiksem abbey reflects this broader, turbulent chapter of European history. Following the loss of its original home, the community eventually reestablished itself in Bornem, carrying its spiritual and communal tradition forward into a new setting.

Why is the abbey dedicated to Saint Bernard?

Both the former abbey in Hemiksem and the current abbey in Bornem were built in honour of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, one of the most influential reformers of the Cistercian order in the Middle Ages. His spirituality, rooted in simplicity, manual labour, and prayer, continues to shape the character of Cistercian communities to this day. The shared dedication underlines the continuity of this tradition, despite the dramatic interruption caused by the destruction of the original monastery.

What does "Common Observance" mean?

The term "Common Observance" refers to one of the branches within the wider Cistercian order, distinct from the stricter observance followed by Trappist communities. Abbeys of the Common Observance maintain the traditional Cistercian rule while allowing somewhat greater flexibility in daily communal life compared to the stricter branches of the order. Being the only such abbey within the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels gives Bornem Abbey a distinctive reference status for this particular strand of Cistercian tradition across the entire archdiocese.

Where exactly is the abbey located?

The abbey is situated in the municipality of Bornem, in the Belgian province of Antwerp, at approximately 51.094°N, 4.226°E. This region, lying between Antwerp and Brussels, is home to numerous religious and monastic sites that form part of the rich ecclesiastical history of the Southern Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bornem Abbey unique in its region? Yes — it is the only Cistercian abbey of Common Observance within the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels, making it a singular presence on the religious map of this part of Belgium.

What is the historical background of the abbey? The abbey continues the tradition of the former St. Bernard's Abbey in Hemiksem, which was destroyed during the French Revolution. Both communities share their dedication to Saint Bernard of Clairvaux.

What should visitors keep in mind? Since it remains an active monastic community, visitors are encouraged to be respectful of its living religious character rather than treating it purely as a tourist landmark.

How can the abbey be reached? Located in the province of Antwerp, Bornem is easily accessible from both Antwerp and Brussels, making it a convenient destination for a day trip focused on the region's religious heritage.