The city of Leuven celebrates the completion of nearly 15 years of restoration and repurposing work at the Abbey of Park. This ambitious heritage project concludes with the opening of the international art exhibition 'Interwoven Landscapes: Art at the Abbey of Park' on Saturday, October 24, at Museum PARCUM. The exhibition brings contemporary art together with the historic site.
Mayor Mohamed Ridouani of Leuven expressed his pride in the restored heritage site. 'With the support of the Flemish government, we have restored the historic buildings, interiors, and surrounding landscape, giving them a future-oriented purpose,' Ridouani stated. The abbey now serves as an open space for peace and meeting, where visitors can explore the museum, the microbrewery, or walk around the ponds.
During the restoration, significant attention was paid to preserving the historical atmosphere, including the restoration of 18th-century buildings, the nature reserve, and heritage gems such as the stucco ceilings by Jan Christian Hansche and the stained-glass windows by Jan de Caumont. These 17th-century elements are recognized and protected as Flemish Top Pieces.
Flemish Minister of Immovable Heritage Ben Weyts highlighted the Flemish Government's investment in the abbey as a 'splendid showcase of the Story of Flanders'. He noted that such monuments make Leuven, Flemish Brabant, and Flanders special.
Alderman Dirk Vansina, responsible for monuments and heritage, described the restoration as the result of fifteen years of collaboration between the city, Flanders, the abbey, and restoration specialists. He emphasized the craftsmanship and respectful adaptation to contemporary needs, ensuring the abbey remains a place where heritage, science, culture, religion, and meeting converge.
The opening weekend on Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25, offers free admission to the restored abbey and the 'Interwoven Landscapes' exhibition. This international exhibition features works by 24 artists, including Pierre Huyghe, Laure Prouvost, and Cecilia Vicuña. Nine art projects were developed specifically for this occasion, exploring the connections between people, nature, history, and memories.
The restoration, based on a 2004 master plan, began in 2011 with a €25 million investment from the Flemish government. A 'gentle restoration' approach was chosen, respecting authenticity, with contemporary techniques minimally integrated. The site also utilizes heat recovery from groundwater for energy.
The 'Interwoven Landscapes' exhibition runs from October 24, 2026, to March 28, 2027, at Museum PARCUM, Abdij van Park 7, 3001 Leuven. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM. Tickets are available at www.abdijvanpark.be.
