History

The Abbey of Aywiers was founded in 1215 by Cistercian nuns from the Liège region (the Awirs).

She thrived thanks to donations from lords of Brussels, until reaching 2000 hectares.

Many farms, barns, mills, and coal mines were part of her heritage. Saint Lutgarde lived for 40 years at the Abbey of Aywiers. Patron Saint of Flanders, she is said to have performed many miracles.

During the French Revolution, the Abbey will be sold, and its new owner will partially destroy it to sell the materials. This will not diminish the mysterious charm of the place in any way.

Today, the garden surrounded by its old walls is located at the center of the Old Abbey. The English-style park planted in the last century contains magnificent century-old trees: a sumptuous Rosacea oak, very beautiful linden trees, beeches, field maples...

For over 25 years, the organization of the Gardens of Aywiers has facilitated the restoration of the garden. The garden of aromatic and medicinal plants of the Abbey has been recreated, and hundreds of trees, shrubs, and rare plants have been planted to restore these places to their former glory.

The Book of the History of the Abbey

On the occasion of the 800th anniversary of the Abbey of Aywiers, Isabelle Lévêque-Lamotte & Dorothy Schuermans wrote the book "The Abbey of Aywiers, Beyond the Gardens" (Le Carré Gomand editions).

Richly illustrated, this work presents a powerful abbey whose glory and prestige extended far beyond the Gardens of Aywiers.

Available in all bookstores in the region as well as in Brussels at À Livre Ouvert - Le Rat Conteur or through the publishing house: le Carré Gomand.