The timeless soul of Ter Kameren Abbey/L'abbaye de la Cambre in Brussels
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty and rich history of the Abbey of La Cambre, or Ter Kameren Abbey. Situated in the Maelbeek Valley between the Ixelles Ponds and the Bois de la Cambre, this former Cistercian monastery is now a protected historical site and a vibrant cultural center. Let yourself be carried away by the lens of Eddy Verloes, who captures the soul of this iconic place, where prestigious art schools, national institutes, and parish churches converge.
A journey through the centuries
The abbey's foundation in 1201 by the noblewoman Gisèle marked the beginning of a rich history. Entrusted to Cistercian nuns, it quickly became an important religious and cultural center. Eddy Verloes's images invite you to explore these deep historical roots and connect with the heritage that has stood the test of time. History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and Brussels heritage enthusiasts will appreciate the unique perspectives Eddy offers.
Resilience and resurrection
Over the centuries, the abbey has withstood a great deal, from significant damage during the Wars of Religion (16th and 17th centuries) and a great fire in 1581, to being plundered several times. It was in the 18th century that most of the buildings we see today, including the elegant French-style terraced gardens, were rebuilt in the Louis XV style. Secularisation during the French Revolution (1796) saw the abbey serve as a cotton mill, a military hospital and an École Royale Militaire, before being restored again after the World Wars. Eddy's photography captures the resilience of this place, showing the scars and the beauty of its transformation.
A vibrant legacy today
Today, the abbey complex is a vibrant center. It is home to the École nationale supérieure des arts visuals (ENSAV) de La Cambre, the headquarters of the National Geographic Institute (NGI), and the Gothic abbey church remains a working Catholic parish. The terraced gardens are open to the public and offer a popular place for relaxation. Even a "La Cambre" abbey beer was relaunched in 2022, paying tribute to the sisters' historic brewing heritage. Eddy's images capture this unique blend of past and present, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the abbey's continuing story, beyond what can be found online.
Discover more and connect
Did you enjoy this visual journey through the Abbey of La Cambre? Eddy Verloes invites you to delve deeper into his oeuvre. Visit his other photo collections, view his exhibitions, or contact him for collaborations or inquiries. Be inspired by the stories he tells through his lens and become part of the journey. Your interest is our motivation.