The Abbaye de la Cambre is a former abbey nestled in a lovely little wooded dell in Brussels.

History

The abbey was founded in medieval times but was suppressed by the French Revolutionary army. The attractive 18th-century brick buildings of the abbey, which surround a pretty little courtyard, are now used by several government departments.

What to See

On the courtyard is the main entrance to the lovely little abbey church (Notre Dame de la Cambre), with a simple barrel-vaulted nave. The church is an amalgamation of styles incorporating both Gothic and Classical features.

Inside is one marvellous painting, Albert Bouts’ The Mocking of Christ, an early 16th-century work showing a mournful, blood-spattered Jesus.

Behind the abbey’s buildings are walled and terraced gardens, an oasis of peace away from the hubbub of avenue Louise.