Sint-Truiden Abbey

Sint-Truiden Abbey is a former Benedictine monastery that spreads across substantial grounds and still shows parts of its original Romanesque style plus a Baroque gateway from 1665. The remains of the medieval church and the underground crypt are now fitted with modern displays that explain the original layout and structure of the complex.

The monastery was founded in 655 and grew into one of the most influential religious centers in the Low Countries. French troops closed it in 1794 during the Revolutionary Wars, ending its religious significance and activities.

The crypt below shows how monks lived and worshipped here across the centuries, with preserved details from different periods. You can see how the religious community changed over time by observing the architectural layers and displays.

The grounds are easy to walk through and the church remains are straightforward to reach, with the crypt being a main focus. Plan enough time to explore the displays and details thoroughly, especially if you want to understand the architectural history.

The crypt contains remains from the 11th century and represents the oldest surviving layer of the entire complex. This underground structure reveals how early monks designed these sacred spaces and offers visitors a rare window into their original world.