Heylissem Abbey

Heylissem Abbey is a neoclassical castle featuring a grand facade with twenty-five windows distributed across two levels, creating a balanced architectural composition. The building was originally a monastery and later transformed into a residential manor while retaining the essential characteristics of its religious origins.

Opheylissem Abbey was established in 1129 by Premonstratensian monks as a religious community. The monastery dissolved in 1796, after which the structure was converted into a private residence and adapted to secular use.

The abbey stands at the language boundary between Walloon and Flemish Brabant, reflecting the architectural heritage of both Belgian communities. Today visitors can see how this position shaped the building's design and character.

The surrounding grounds offer various recreational facilities including tennis courts, mini-golf, fishing ponds, and areas for horseback riding. Plan to spend time exploring both the building itself and the extensive outdoor spaces.

A life-sized sundial graces the 28-hectare park surrounding the property, serving as an unusual decorative feature. An ice house from the 1800s still stands preserved within the grounds, showing how people once stored ice for practical use.

Location: Hélécine

Architects: Laurent-Benoît Dewez

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Website: https://chateaudhelecine.be

GPS coordinates: 50.74657,4.97919

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:21