Leuven (Brussels Morning newspaper): The restored New Abbot’s Quarters of the Abbey of Vlierbeek, designed by architect Laurent-Benoît Dewez, is now a youth center with eleven studios. Opened in 2022, it symbolizes the abbey’s historical wealth and influence.
The New Abbot’s Quarters of the Abbey of Vlierbeek, built between 1776 and 1779, is a notable example of neoclassical architecture. It was designed by renowned Belgian architect Laurent-Benoît Dewez, who served as court architect for Charles of Lorraine. Intended to house the abbot and serve as the abbey’s administrative center, it symbolizes the abbey’s wealth and influence during its peak. Dewez’s significant contributions to architecture in the Austrian Netherlands include many important religious and civic buildings.
What are the history and purpose of the new abbot’s quarters in Leuven?
The abbot planned to build an abbey, but it was never finished. Only the building and the church were completed before the abbey closed. Over the years, the building was rented to people like Minister Joris Helleputte and other important families. Later, the sisters of Vorselaar used it for a school, but they also left. The Nieuw Abtskwartier was empty for ten years until it was restored in 2022. It has opened officially, with spaces for events on the ground floor, a room in the attic, and eleven studios for young people in need.
Organizations Mind the Gap and De Wissel are working on a new building for young people, who will move in early next year. Many visitors came to see the restored space on Sunday. Georges Van Gastel said it was a great success. He pointed out the Dewez hall, named after the architect, and mentioned that the old wooden floor was carefully repaired. Visitors were impressed and happy that the place was ready for young people in need.
