Tongerlo Abbey

History

Tongerlo Abbey and Averbode Abbey, just 11 kilometers away, have a similar history and suffered many of the same ordeals. Tongerlo was founded in 1130 by Norbertines from Saint Michael Abbey in Antwerp. The monastic community at Tongerlo initially included both monks and nuns. Over the many centuries of its existence, the abbey grew in prestige and influence, and extensive lands were added to its jurisdiction. Tragedy struck in 1796, however, during the French Revolutionary Wars in the region. The French destroyed the abbey’s ancient church, expelled the monks, and confiscated and sold off its lands. New life began at the abbey in 1840, when the Norbertines returned and started rebuilding. In 1929, a large fire unfortunately destroyed many of the abbey buildings. Nonetheless, the monks once again dutifully returned the abbey to its full functioning and grandeur, as witnessed today.

Food & beverage

Meals are eaten in a separate guest refectory and conversation is permitted.

Outside the abbey, the Torenhof restaurant and bistro offers full-course meals and lighter fare. Housed in a former villa, this stylish brasserie (Tongerlo beers are available), provides great views of the abbey and Merode forest, and has outdoor seating in a lovely patio garden.

Grounds & Gardens

The surrounding area provides opportunities for great hiking on marked trails through the forests and biking on a network of bike-only paths in the area. The nearby 16th century Merode Castle is definitely worth a visit. City trips are also possible: Antwerp is 45 kilometers away, and Brussels, 65 kilometers.

Other facilities

The abbey has several key attractions worth exploring and experiencing. In the middle of the yard is a barn-like building, with a permanent exhibition on the abbey’s long history and monastic way of life. On the left side, you will find the abbey bookshop, De Oude Linden (Old Linden Trees), which also sells other products like candles, crosses, soap, and Abbey beer Tongerlo (made at a nearby brewery). 

The da Vinci museum is a highlight of Tongerlo and attracts many tourists. The museum houses the world’s oldest copy of da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, which retains details in the painting no longer visible in the original fresco in Milan because of its deterioration. Though a reproduction from the 16th century, the colors, textures, and emotional content of da Vinci’s original are palpable. Moreover, to behold this magnificent painting in its true size--four meters tall, eight meters wide--is truly mind-blowing. This painting alone is worth the visit! The museum’s operating hours are normally 2-5 pm. Check the website of the abbey or the tourist office in Westerlo for confirmation before your visit.