Maredsous Abbey, Benedictine monastery in Denée, Belgium
Maredsous Abbey is a Benedictine monastery in Anhée featuring a striking Gothic Revival church, cloisters, and multiple buildings arranged around a central courtyard. The property also houses a cheese production facility, an arts and crafts school, and various workshops where monks carry out their daily activities.
The monastery was established in 1872 and received abbey status in 1878. It grew rapidly to become an important Benedictine center with strong ties to the broader European monastic network.
The monks maintain daily prayer services in the choir area and operate a School of Applied Arts and Crafts focusing on fine arts training.
The grounds are open to visitors who can book guided tours to explore the main areas. It is helpful to check ahead about access conditions, as some sections may be reserved for the monastic community.
The abbey runs a traditional cheese production in special cellars beneath the buildings, where monks employ time-honored techniques. These cheeses have gained recognition throughout Belgium and are valued by visitors and food connoisseurs.
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