La Cambre Abbey, Cistercian abbey in Ixelles, Belgium
La Cambre Abbey is a stone complex with classical architecture and Gothic elements, comprising a church, cloister, and formal French-style gardens arranged on multiple levels. The property sits between the Ixelles ponds and the Bois de la Cambre park.
The abbey was founded in 1201 by a noble Brussels woman and became an important spiritual center. It suffered significant damage during religious conflicts in the 16th century.
The grounds house an art school today, maintaining an educational mission while opening the historical structures and gardens to the public.
The grounds are easily accessible and open sections allow free entry to the gardens and outer areas of the complex. The best time to explore is during daylight hours, when architectural details and garden features are clearly visible.
The church dates from the 14th century and is one of the most complete medieval religious complexes still standing in the Brussels region. The well-preserved Gothic cloister offers a rare glimpse into monastic life from that era.
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