Garden pavilion Montfortcollege

Within the beautiful domain of the former abbey 'Vrouwenpark', we see the distinctive garden pavilion, surrounded by water on three sides, located near the beginning of the avenue on the Aarschotsesteenweg. It is an octagonal structure made of reclaimed iron sandstone and features a conical, strongly overhanging thatched roof. A staircase carved into the thickness of the wall leads to the interior space, which is vaulted by a brick dome. A 'recycled' keystone made of sandstone displays a lovely floral motif. The upper floor has a surrounding terrace and is accessible from the north side via a wide stone staircase.

Such buildings were often erected in the so-called English gardens. These 'follies' were often historicizing, sometimes resembling classical Greek or Roman styles, or - as is the case here - referencing medieval Gothic.

Jan Rymenams