Viewpoint from the hill
From the top of the hill, nearly 9 centuries can be contemplated. In 1796, the decree suppressing religious communities forced the last monks to leave the monastery. The buildings were sold to a materials dealer who dismantled them piece by piece. In 1892, the Belgian State expropriated the premises and began a major restoration and consolidation project. In 1972, the abbey was classified as a historic site and monument, and 20 years later as an exceptional heritage of Wallonia. The whole area in front of you is one of the largest archaeological sites in Belgium.