Orval Abbey

Why visit

Modern monastic buildings stand beside evocative ruins of the earlier abbey, allowing the long history of Orval to be read through both living religious architecture and archaeological remains. The visit is worthwhile because it brings several strands of Belgian history and landscape together in one clearly legible setting. Time on site can focus on medieval abbey ruins, twentieth-century abbey church, monastic museum, while the surrounding streets, grounds or scenery provide useful context. It works especially well as part of a regional itinerary because the place adds a distinct subject rather than repeating the experience of nearby attractions.

What you will see

• medieval abbey ruins.
• twentieth-century abbey church.
• monastic museum.
• wooded Gaume setting.

History

Orval was founded in the Middle Ages and rebuilt after periods of destruction. The historic abbey was suppressed and largely ruined during the French revolutionary era, while a new Trappist community and abbey were established in the twentieth century.

Visitor tips

1. 1

   Allow enough time to understand the surrounding setting as well as the principal feature, and follow local signs where historic surfaces, protected areas or active public spaces affect access.

About Luxembourg Province

Belgian Luxembourg is the country's most heavily wooded province, with Ardennes castles, compact river towns, Second World War memory and active monastic sites.