St. Paul's Abbey, Benedictine abbey in De Heilige Driehoek, Netherlands
St. Paul's Abbey is a Benedictine monastery in Oosterhout featuring sturdy brick construction with geometric patterns, arched windows, and a central courtyard. The monastic buildings form a connected complex surrounding this courtyard where monks have lived and worked for generations.
French Benedictine monks founded this monastery in 1901 after fleeing anti-clerical laws in their home country, having first settled temporarily in Belgium. These religious refugees sought a place where they could continue their monastic way of life without persecution.
The abbey maintains regular prayer services and religious ceremonies, carrying forward centuries of Benedictine traditions in the Dutch religious landscape.
The grounds are accessible through organized visits that include the church, gardens, and certain monastic areas. Visitors should plan visits around the monks' prayer schedule, which shapes when you can explore the property.
During World War I, the abbey sheltered 43 Belgian boys and six monks who escaped from Westmalle Abbey after German attacks. These refugees found protection within its walls while war raged around the region.
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