The site of the ancient Abbey of Villers-la-Ville

The site of the ancient Abbey of Villers-la-Ville, a jewel in Wallonia’s heritage, is regarded as one of the most complete in Europe. Not because of its state of preservation, but due to the still visible remains of all the buildings that were once part of everyday life at the Abbey. As well as a spectacular hydraulic system (the River Thyle, vaulted and canalised over 271 m !). Take advantage of a visit to this exceptional monument to enjoy a pleasant stroll. Explore the green setting of this architectural site and take part in the wide range of events organised to bring the ruins “back to life”!

An exceptional heritage site in Wallonia
The Villers Abbey, founded in 1146, with its majestic ruins, is one of the most prestigious examples of the life of the monks of the Cistercian Order in Europe. The monks and converts used an ingenious hydraulic system made up of underground channels, watermills and lakes to develop this enclosed marshy location. The vast cloister built in the 13th century is the centre of the monastery surrounded by buildings built or converted by the religious order for prayer, receptions and manual work.

The Abbey reflects many of the architectural styles found in the region. The Abbey once again took on great importance in the 18th century but was plundered in 1794 and the monks left it in 1796.

What is there to see? 850 years of history and a multitude of activities to suit everyone. Family days, open-air concerts and shows, exhibitions, guided walks around the Abbey, etc…

– Non-guided tours (with a tour map in F/NL/GB/D/I/E, Czech, Polish and Russian)
– Guided tours (F/NL/GB/D/I/E) by arrangement only
– Rooms for receptions, banquets, prestigious exhibitions, …
– Shows on demand for individuals, schools and companies throughout the year…

Signposts between the train station (Villers-la-Ville) and the Abbey (+ return) will guide you on a pleasant stroll (20 minutes).

Abbaye de Villers-la-Ville
Rue de l’Abbaye, 55
B-1495 Villers-la-Ville – Belgium
Tél. : +32(0)71.88.09.80
Fax : +32(0)71.87.84.40
E-mail: info@villers.be
Website:www.villers.be

Opening hours
01/04 – 31/10 : 10 – 18h
01/11 – 31/03 : 10 – 17h (closed on Tuesdays) and by arrangement for groups
Annual closure: 24, 25, 31/12 and 01/01.
GPS: 50.589585,4.529755

We use the translation services online, thank you for your indulgence if the translation is not optimal.