Abbaye de Belval, Historical abbey in Belval-Bois-des-Dames, France
The Abbaye de Belval au Bois-des-Dames is a former Premonstratensian monastery between Belval-Bois-des-Dames and Vaux-en-Dieulet in the northeastern Ardennes. The complex sits in a forest clearing and includes several preserved monastic buildings from different periods, including residential and service structures.
Canons of Saint Augustine founded the monastery in the 1120s before it joined the Premonstratensian order in 1133. The community continued on lands belonging to the Bishop of Verdun until the French Revolution.
The local community uses the site today for spiritual retreats and quiet walks along the surrounding forest paths. Visitors experience an atmosphere of silence that recalls the contemplative tradition of the Premonstratensians and remains present in the preserved buildings.
Guided tours help visitors explore the monastic complex while a shop offers regional products. The Les Pierres Blanches guesthouse allows groups to stay overnight during most of the year.
King Charles VI granted the monks fishing rights on the Meuse River in 1398, securing a special economic privilege for the community. This source of income continued for centuries and helped sustain the upkeep of the complex.
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