Saint Willibrord Abbey and Slangenburg Castle

History

The first monks came to Slangenburg in 1948 from the Saint Paul’s Abbey in Oosterhout, and then started building the abbey with limited resources in the face of post-war shortages. They lived in the old castle Slangenburg, until the then monastery was finished in 1952 after four years of hard work. In 1954, the monastery was promoted the status of an abbey. In front of the abbey, a bronze statue of two monks in a warm embrace represents the ethos of brotherhood permeating the abbey. The abbey church is small and intimate, and invites one to reflect. The abbey offers groups the use of the Bethlehem, 'silence center', featuring meditation rooms and a Japanese Zen rock garden.

Food & beverage

The castle has a fixed daily schedule for meals and drinks, which offers the opportunity to attend the six daily prayer services in the nearby abbey and to meet fellow lodgers. The guests say the meals are 'more than excellent', especially the hot, three-course meal at lunchtime.

Grounds & Gardens

The road to the castle takes you through the beautiful estate, and after driving up the long driveway you find the castle with a moat suddenly in front of you. In this stylish castle, guests are welcome for a time of rest, reflection, and inspiration. The castle's architecture and furnishings transports you to a time centuries ago, and complemented by the elaborately decorated ceilings and classical wall paintings.