Augustinian Monastery

The Augustinian Monastery is a religious complex in Ghent with medieval construction and Gothic architectural features throughout its layout. Its spacious rooms and traditional monastic gardens remain visible, showing how the building organized daily communal life.

The monastery was founded in 1296 after receiving permission from the Bishop of Tournai and operated as an active community for over 500 years. It closed in 1796 when religious institutions in the region ceased their monastic functions.

The monastery functions as a community space for local events while housing historical documents that show how monks lived here over centuries. Visitors can observe how sacred rooms continue to serve people gathering together.

Visitors must arrange visits in advance by contacting the monastery to schedule an appointment rather than dropping in unexpectedly. The site is located within a low-emission traffic zone in central Ghent, so check local traffic rules before traveling there.

Saint Stephen's Church within the complex developed into a pilgrimage destination where visitors come to seek intercession from Saint Rita. This spiritual connection draws people seeking help with personal matters.