Abbaye de la Cambre

The Abbaye de la Cambre is a former abbey nestled in a lovely little wooded dell in Brussels.

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.

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.