The Aulnenhof, wealth of the Abbey of Aulne

In the middle of the village stands one of the most beautiful farms in the region. Although it is a catering business today, we can still easily imagine how the wealth of the Abbey of Aulne was displayed here. It measures a remarkable 69 m by 64 m. This enclosed farm, formerly known as 'Jadoules', has a rectangular courtyard and dates back to the 18th century. The year 1739 is mentioned above the gatehouse. Opposite the entrance gate is a spacious barn, with the residential house on the right as the oldest core. The stables and service buildings are seen on the short side. The living quarters are in line with the gate. A bricked-up gate is dated with the year 1774. The two-story farmhouse was partially renovated. The original space of the yard was broken up by various outbuildings. Note the natural stone frames of door and window openings and of ventilation slits in the facade.

The farm was built by the Desfraisne family. The agricultural operation had a cultivated area of 110 ha. In 1989, the entire property became a catering business. In addition to banquet halls, the infrastructure was further expanded in 1992 with the renovation of the impressive barn with an original oak frame. In 1996, a bistro was added.

Interesting detail: the impressive cross barn, measuring 15 m wide, 31 m long, and 17 m high, has two threshing floors.

Jan Rymenams