Founded in 1121 by Norbert de Gennep, founder of the Order of the Canons Regular of Prémontré, at the request of the counts of Namur, Floreffe Abbey does not go unnoticed in the landscape, with its tall buildings overlooking the Sambre valley.
You have an impression of immensity when you glimpse it. As a victim of the wars that have taken place over the centuries, Floreffe Abbey has often suffered enemy attacks. Floreffe was a strategic location to protect Namur for a long time and it wasn't until the 18th century that peace became established there. This gave the abbots free reign to rebuild the buildings that are part of it today. They surround an elegant courtyard while its abbey church has an impressive length of 100 metres!
Abbey produce
To visit the abbey, there are two tours: a guided tour of the abbey and its annexes or a version dedicated to buildings, 17th and 18th century décors, as well as the Mediaeval parts of the complex. The latter requires booking. When you come, you'll also discover the windmill brewery, dating from 1250, the oldest industrial building in Namur Province. This is where you can taste the abbey’s produce, and discover regional craftsmanship.
Copyright pictures: abbaye-de-floreffe.be / Find your place
