1. Saint Bernardus Abbey

Our first stop is the domain of the magnificent Saint Bernardus Abbey (Nijverheidsstraat 4, Hemiksem). "This was built in the mid-13th century and is named after Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. The Bernardines are said to have laid the foundation for clay extraction and the brick industry in the Rupel region,” tells Erik, chairman of Natuurpunt Rupelstreek. The abbey has a tumultuous history. In the 17th century, it was largely destroyed by fire. And in the 18th century, the monks were expelled by the French and the church was demolished. The current buildings date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The French used it as a maritime hospital, architect Bourla converted the abbey into a prison. Afterwards, the buildings served as a storage facility for the army and an internment camp for people suspected of collaboration. “Today, the complex is a protected monument and here you will find not only the town hall of Hemiksem but also two museums: the Heem Museum and the Gilliot and Roelants Tile Museum.”

Sandra