Groeningeabdij Kortrijk, Medieval Cistercian abbey in Kortrijk, Belgium
The Groeningeabdij is a former Cistercian convent in central Kortrijk with preserved buildings including a dormitory, chapel, and exhibition halls organized across connected structures. These buildings display the original layout typical of a religious community complex with its various functional areas.
The convent was established before 1236 at another location and later moved into Kortrijk's walls, operating there until 1797. French forces during the Revolutionary Wars brought an end to religious life at the site.
The site sits near where the 1302 Battle of Golden Spurs occurred, a pivotal moment for Flemish identity and independence. Today, locals and visitors understand this location as part of that historical narrative.
The site now functions as an exhibition center called Abby with contemporary display spaces for visual arts and public events. Visitors should expect that certain areas may be accessible only during specific exhibitions or event times.
The dormitory dates to 1597 and reflects the later phase of the convent's existence. Contemporary art spaces have been carefully woven into the historic structures, creating a dialogue between old and new.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
