Averbode Abbey
Averbode Abbey is a Premonstratensian monastery in Belgium with a history dating back to its founding around 1134. Throughout its existence, it has experienced periods of growth, suppression, and reestablishment, notably serving as a leading children's publisher in Belgium during the 20th century. The abbey church is a distinct blend of Baroque and Gothic architectural styles, constructed with local sandstone.
Key Facts
- ›Founded around 1134-1135 by Arnold II, Count of Loon.
- ›Suppressed in 1797 and reestablished in 1834.
- ›The abbey press was a prominent Belgian children's publisher in the 20th century.
- ›The abbey church is a unique combination of Baroque and Gothic architectural styles.
- ›The entire structure of the church and abbey complex was built between 1664 and 1672.
- ›Historically possessed extensive lands, including farms, woodlands, and mills, and served 27 parishes.
Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance
Abbey Church, Abbey Press, Abbey Café With Brewery, Abbey Bakery, Abbey Shop, Dairy Farm, Zonneland Youth Magazine
Arnold Ii, Count of Loon, Abbot Andreas, Gerard Vander Schaeft, Ignatius Carleer, Edward Poppe, Jan Van Den Eynde Ii, Lucas Faydherbe
Suppression In 1797, Reestablishment In 1834, Fire In 1499, Beeldenstorm In the 16th Century, Eviction of Canons In 1797, Brabant Revolution
About Averbode Abbey
Averbode Abbey is a significant Premonstratensian monastery located in Averbode, within the municipality of Scherpenheuvel-Zichem in Flemish Brabant, Belgium. Its origins trace back to approximately 1134-1135, when it was founded by Arnold II, Count of Loon, with the support of various local lords and the Abbey of Sint-Truiden. The abbey has experienced a complex history, including a period of suppression in 1797, followed by its reestablishment in 1834.
Historical Significance and Development
Over the centuries, Averbode Abbey grew considerably in size and influence. By the 17th century, it encompassed vast estates, including farms, woodlands, and mills, and provided priests for 27 parishes. The abbey faced challenges such as a fire in 1499 and the political and religious instability of the 16th century, which led to periods of flight for the canons and a reduction in their numbers due to plague.
The abbey's publishing activities became particularly notable in the 20th century, with its press emerging as a leading publisher of children's books and youth magazines in Belgium, such as the widely recognized "Zonneland." This endeavor, alongside the establishment of a "Brotherhood of Mother of the Sacred Heart" in the late 19th century, significantly revitalized the abbey and defined its works.
Architectural Features
The abbey church itself is a striking example of architectural synthesis. Constructed between 1664 and 1672, after a design by architect Jan van den Eynde II, it presents a unique blend of Baroque and Gothic styles, enhanced with Renaissance ornamental details. The structure is built from iron sandstone and white sandstone, and its design features a centralized cruciform space for the laity and a deep choir for choral services, reflecting a notable treatment of space within Norbertine abbey churches.
Present Day Operations
Today, Averbode Abbey continues its monastic life and has adapted its historical assets for contemporary use. The grounds feature an abbey café that includes a brewery producing its own beer, a bakery, and an abbey shop selling regional products and books. The abbey also maintains a dairy farm, continuing a long tradition of sustainable food and drink production. In 2011, the abbey housed 78 canons, with 45 residing and working within its walls, reflecting its ongoing commitment to its religious and community roles.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Averbode Abbey founded?
Averbode Abbey was founded around 1134-1135 by Arnold II, Count of Loon. The first canons and abbot came from the Sint-Michielsabdij in Antwerp.
What is the architectural style of Averbode Abbey's church?
The abbey church is a peculiar synthesis of Baroque and Gothic styles, incorporating Renaissance ornamental details. It was constructed between 1664 and 1672.
What significant role did Averbode Abbey play in publishing?
Throughout the 20th century, the abbey press was a leading publisher of children's books and youth magazines in Belgium, such as Zonneland and Tremplin.
Has Averbode Abbey always been active?
No, the abbey was suppressed in 1797 by the French and reestablished on December 14, 1834. It has remained active since its reestablishment.
What historical events impacted Averbode Abbey?
The abbey faced destruction by fire in 1499 and damage from travelling troops during the Brabant Revolution in the late 18th century. It was also suppressed by the French in 1796 and its canons evicted in 1797.
What are some modern features of Averbode Abbey?
In recent years, the courtyard has been redesigned, and old service buildings have been repurposed into an abbey café with a brewery, a bakery, and an abbey shop selling local produce and books.
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