Affligem Abbey

History

Affligem Abbey has an unusual and tumultuous history. The abbey was founded in 1062 by six knights on the grounds of Count Palatine Herman II of Lorraine. Disillusioned with the world of power politics and violence, the knights renounced earthly affairs and turned to a monastic lifestyle, dedicating themselves to prayer, good works, and brewing beer. Due to the questionable medieval water quality, the brewing of beer was the safe alternative, and became the precursor brewing tradition to today's Affligem Ales. In 1086, and in accordance with the monastic principles of the Rule of Saint Benedict, the abbey was formally established.

The following centuries saw four successive periods of flourishing, each interrupted by devastating fires, violence, and war in the convulsions of a bloody European history. Affligem Abbey is the most prominent abbey in the county of Brabant, and as such, was the gravesite for several counts.

The woes of Affligem abbey continued during the French Revolutionary Wars, when French invaders in 1796 confiscated the abbey, expelled the monks, and destroyed many of its buildings. After a forty-year exile from the abbey, the monastic community began to revive in Affligem. The poor condition of abbey buildings and legal questions over ownership of the abbey property, however, compelled the monks to relocate to a monastery in nearby Dendermonde, which still exists today. It was not until 1870 that the monks were finally able to return to Affligem, and began the process of rebuilding the abbey. 

Food & beverage

The cafe, Gasthof d' Oude Brouwerij (Old Brewery Cafe), is run by the brewery. Here, you can enjoy Affligem beers such as the world famous Affligem Blond, Dubbel and Tripel, crafted under the abbey ‘trademark’.

Other facilities

On your visit to Affligem, the 18th century 'Bishop's House' functions as the main entrance to the abbey. From the Bishop's House you can walk a ways down along the abbey wall to the 'Cultural Center', with art exhibitions and a small shop. The 'Religious Center', housing the abbey gift-shop with a large assortment of religious objects, books, and souvenirs, is located behind the Cafe.

The abbey has an impressive library, whose collection includes texts dating to middle ages. You can visit the sanctuary devoted the worship of Maria, and in the abbey garden, view the remains of a 12th century Romanesque church.