LEUVEN – The Abbey of Vlierbeek in Kessel-Lo is marking its 900th anniversary this year with a series of cultural events, commemorating nearly a millennium of history, heritage, and community spirit.
Despite no longer housing a monastic community since the late 18th century, the site remains a significant landmark in Leuven’s cultural and religious landscape.
Originally founded in 1125 as a Benedictine priory under the Abbey of Affligem, the Abbey of Vlierbeek was established through a donation from the Count of Leuven.
Over the centuries, the abbey played a vital role in the region’s religious and intellectual life until its dissolution during the late 18th-century secularization under Austrian rule. Today, the site remains a cherished historical and cultural venue.
To honor its 900th anniversary, organizers have planned an extensive program of exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and guided tours, offering visitors a chance to explore the abbey’s rich history and architectural heritage.
A highlight of the celebrations will be a special Eucharist service on 2 February, which will be broadcast live on national broadcaster VRT, drawing attention to the abbey’s lasting spiritual significance.
Leuven’s councillor for heritage, Dirk Vansina, emphasized the importance of the milestone, stating, “The 900th anniversary of the abbey is more than just a number. It bears witness to a long history of religion, culture, and community.”
He noted that the abbey has remained a cherished site for both locals and visitors, symbolizing continuity amidst changing times.
Among the planned events, historical exhibitions will showcase artifacts and documents detailing the abbey’s past, while lectures by historians and experts will delve into its evolution over the centuries.
Music lovers will be treated to classical and choral concerts held within the abbey’s atmospheric setting, reflecting its long-standing association with sacred music.
Additionally, guided tours will allow guests to explore the abbey’s preserved architecture and its surrounding gardens, which have remained a place of tranquility and reflection for generations.
Local organizations and volunteers have been actively involved in organizing the celebrations, ensuring that the abbey’s story reaches a broad audience.
Schools and community groups have also been invited to participate in special educational programs, aimed at deepening public understanding of the abbey’s role in Leuven’s history.
The Abbey of Vlierbeek continues to serve as a meeting place for cultural activities, religious services, and local gatherings. The 900th anniversary celebrations provide an opportunity to not only honor its past but also to reinforce its role as a hub for cultural enrichment in the region.
As Leuven commemorates this historic milestone, visitors and residents alike are invited to take part in the festivities, ensuring that the Abbey of Vlierbeek remains a living testament to centuries of faith, learning, and community engagement.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
