Since the end of 2024, a gigantic project has been underway on the site of the former Benedictine abbey in the heart of Forest. The aim of this ambitious project is to carry out a thorough restoration of the historic buildings and construct a new building to house the future municipal library. The abbey, founded in the early 12th century, today retains the impressive buildings designed by the architect Laurent-Benoît Dewez between 1763 and 1767. These are organised around a vast horseshoe-shaped courtyard. Work during the 18th century involved diverting a stream that once crossed the site and the domestic mill. The mill was rediscovered during recent archaeological excavations, revealing a forgotten part of the history of Forest. Mysterious markings engraved on the stones offer an unprecedented insight into this 18th century building site.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to discover this vast renovation project and delve into the history of the site… through the eye of the archaeologist.

Collaboration urban.brussels – Art & History Museum – Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage – ABY – BELIRIS – ARTES

Book your guided tour by sending an email to archeologie@urban.brussels, specifying the type of event/the site, the number of people, the time and the language.

Please note: for safety reasons, closed shoes are obligatory to access this tour.

Practical information

Guided tour on Sunday 15/06/2025

Meeting Point: Abbaye de Forest / Abdij van Vorst, via Place Saint-Denis, to the left of the gatehouse

Maximum 30 persons per guided tour

Reservation compulsory

Not accessible for PRM

Sunday 15/06/2025

Schedule of guided tours (Duration of the visit: 60 min)

Guided tours only in French

10.00 (FR)

14.00 (FR)