Abbaye de la Cambre, Brussels
The peaceful Abbaye de la Cambre. Photo by mightmightymatze.
Details of the abbey church. Photo by mightmightymatze.
An abbey building, now housing offices. Photo by mightmightymatze.
Benches in the gardens. Photo by mightmightymatze.
The Abbaye de la Cambre is a former abbey nestled in a lovely little wooded dell in Brussels.
History
The abbey was founded in medieval times but was suppressed by the French Revolutionary army. The attractive 18th-century brick buildings of the abbey, which surround a pretty little courtyard, are now used by several government departments.
What to See
On the courtyard is the main entrance to the lovely little abbey church (Notre Dame de la Cambre), with a simple barrel-vaulted nave. The church is an amalgamation of styles incorporating both Gothic and Classical features.
Inside is one marvellous painting, Albert Bouts' The Mocking of Christ, an early 16th-century work showing a mournful, blood-spattered Jesus.
Behind the abbey's buildings are walled and terraced gardens, an oasis of peace away from the hubbub of avenue Louise.
Quick Facts
| Names: | Abbaye de la Cambre; Abdij Ter Kameren |
| Type of site: | Former abbey |
| Dates: | Mostly 18th century |
| Location: | Other side of avenue Louise from the Meunier Museum, easily approached via rue de l'Aurore |
| Hours: | Mon–Fri 9am–noon & 3–6pm |
| Cost: | Free |
| Tram: | #93, #94 |
Map
Location map and satellite view of Abbaye de la Cambre. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Brussels Map or get our Google Earth download.
Sources
- Rough Guide Brussels
