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VZW De Wintertuin: A Glimpse into Art Nouveau Splendor

Discover a breathtaking Art Nouveau winter garden in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, a preserved monument with a rich history and stunning architectural details.

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VZW De Wintertuin, located in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, is a stunning Art Nouveau winter garden that was once part of the Ursulinen Institute, a former girls' boarding school. Today, it stands as a preserved monument, open to the public, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles and offering a glimpse into the life of the students who once resided there.

A brief summary to VZW De Wintertuin

  • Bosstraat 9A, Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver, 2861, BE
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Book your tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season, as tours can fill up quickly.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to access additional areas like the Kloosterkerk and Pianogalerij, which are not included in the self-guided tour.
  • The site is largely accessible, but the first floor is not accessible for wheelchairs. A tablet application is available to experience the first floor.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Mechelen Station, take bus line 3, 30, or 52. Get off at the Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver Lemanstraat stop, which is a short walk from VZW De Wintertuin. A single bus fare costs approximately €2.50.

  • Car

    VZW De Wintertuin is located in the center of Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver. Free parking is available for visitors next to the entrance. Additional free parking can be found in the Bosstraat. Be aware of blue zones in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, where a parking disc is required from Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 6 PM. Paid parking is also available in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, with rates around €1.5 per hour.

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Discover more about VZW De Wintertuin

VZW De Wintertuin, nestled within the Ursulinen Institute in Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver (Sint-Katelijne-Waver), is a captivating journey into the past. This hidden gem, a stunning Art Nouveau winter garden, was established around 1900 as a reception area for the Ursuline boarding school, aiming to attract wealthy families with its modern and extravagant style. The architect remains unknown, adding to its mystique. Founded in 1841, the Ursulinen Institute initially provided education to local girls, later expanding to accommodate students from around the globe. The Wintertuin, with its colorful lead glass dome, served as the heart of the boarding school, hosting international guests and creating a unique atmosphere. The building complex reflects a blend of architectural styles, including neo-Gothic, neo-Romantic, neo-Empire, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco elements. To safeguard this heritage, the sisters established the VZW Wintertuin preservation association in 1994. In 2015, the Ursulines entrusted their patrimony to a public utility foundation, ensuring the estate's preservation. Today, visitors can explore the Wintertuin through self-guided audio tours or guided group visits, which include access to the Kloosterkerk and Pianogalerij. The site also hosts cultural events, such as lectures and concerts. The Wintertuin is closed for its annual winter closure from December 1 to the end of February and reopens to visitors on March 1.

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