Maredsous Abbey: A Benedictine Sanctuary

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Discover Maredsous Abbey: a historic Benedictine monastery in the scenic Molignée Valley, known for its architecture, cheese, and beer.

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Maredsous Abbey

Nestled in Belgium's scenic Molignée valley, Maredsous Abbey is a working Benedictine monastery founded in 1872. Visitors can explore its neo-Gothic architecture, experience the tranquil atmosphere, and sample the abbey's famous cheese and beer, made with recipes passed down through generations.

A brief summary to Maredsous Abbey

Rue de Maredsous 11, Anhee, 5537, BE
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Monday 11 am-6 pm
Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
Thursday 11 am-6 pm
Friday 11 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-7 pm
Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

Visit the Cheesemaking Museum to learn about the traditional methods used to produce Maredsous cheese.
Sample the Maredsous beer and cheese at the Saint-Joseph Visitor Center.
Take a guided tour of the abbey to learn about its history and monastic life.
Explore the beautiful Molignée valley surrounding the abbey with marked walking trails.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Namur, take bus line 21 towards Maredsous. The bus stops at Maredsous Station, a short walk from the abbey. Bus fare is approximately €2-3. Check the TEC Namur-Luxembourg website for the most up-to-date schedule. Alternatively, from Dinant, take bus line 35 to Maredsous Abbaye. This bus runs twice daily and costs approximately €2-€3.
Car

From Brussels, take the E411 motorway towards Namur. Continue on the E411 until exit 14 for Dinant. Follow signs for Maredsous Abbey. The abbey is located in the village of Denée. There is ample parking available at the abbey. Parking is free. From Dinant, follow the N946 and N97 towards Anhée, then follow local signs to Maredsous Abbey.

Discover more about Maredsous Abbey

Maredsous Abbey, located in the picturesque Molignée valley in the province of Namur, Belgium, offers a serene escape into a world of faith, history, and tradition. Founded in 1872 by Benedictine monks from Beuron Abbey in Germany, with the financial support of the Desclée family, this neo-Gothic abbey is a testament to architectural beauty and spiritual devotion. The abbey's origins lie in the desire of the Desclée de Maredsous family to establish a Benedictine presence on their land. Inspired by the Cistercian abbey of Villers, architect Jean-Baptiste de Bethune designed the buildings, which were completed in 1892. Today, Maredsous Abbey continues to operate as a working monastery, with monks following the Rule of Saint Benedict, dividing their time between prayer, work, and hospitality. Visitors to Maredsous Abbey can explore the stunning church, wander through the peaceful cloister, and discover the abbey's rich history. The Saint-Joseph Visitor Center welcomes guests with a cafeteria, bookshop, and souvenir shop. A playground is also available for children. Maredsous Abbey is also known for its culinary traditions, producing Maredsous cheese, a semi-hard cow's milk cheese with a distinctive flavor. Although the Maredsous beer is currently brewed by Duvel Moortgat Brewery, it is still based on the original recipe of Father Atout and matured in the abbey's cellars. Visitors can sample the beer and cheese at the abbey's cafeteria. For those interested in the cheesemaking process, the Cheesemaking Museum offers a glimpse into the traditional methods used to create Maredsous cheese. Guided tours of the abbey are available, providing insights into the monastic life and the abbey's heritage. The abbey's peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and spiritual enrichment. With its rich history, architectural splendor, and delicious local products, Maredsous Abbey offers a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.