Park Abbey

Park Abbey is known as one of the best preserved abbey sites in Western Europe. In addition to the abbey and its associated church, the site also includes a farm complex and a vast estate of meadows and ponds. Although the abbey mainly dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, its history goes back to 1129, when the Duke of Brabant donated his hunting grounds in Leuven to the Norbertines. Known as prosperous and powerful, the Norbertines of Park were nicknamed the "Princes of Park". They led privileged lives focusing on literature and art. For example, the abbey library once housed a famous collection of manuscripts and old prints. The prelates embellished the interior with works of art, such as Jean de Caumont’s stained glass windows in the cloister aisle and Jan Christiaen Hansche's stucco ceilings.