Abbaye de la Cambre. Brussels, Belgium

The Abbaye de la Cambre is a hidden gem with centuries of history. It was founded in 1201 by a noblewoman named Gisèle and was once home to Cistercian nuns. Over time, the abbey has survived wars, fires, and even the French Revolution. While parts of it were damaged and rebuilt, you can still find pieces dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, like the Gothic-style church and cloisters.

The peaceful gardens that surround the abbey are just as beloved as the buildings themselves. Locals and visitors come here to relax, stroll, or enjoy a quiet moment in nature. The terraced gardens, restored in the 1920s, offer beautiful views and a calm escape from the city.

Today, the abbey is used for various purposes. It houses a parish church, an art and design school, and even the former headquarters of Belgium’s National Geographic Institute. Despite its modern uses, La Cambre remains a serene place where history and beauty live side by side.