Clervaux Abbey
Clervaux
Clervaux Abbey, officially known as the Abbey of St. Maurice and St. Maurus of Clervaux, is a Benedictine monastery founded in 1890 in Clervaux, Luxembourg. It originated from monks of the Abbey of St. Maur of Glanfeuil in France, re-established after the French Revolution. Due to anti-clerical laws in France, the monks relocated to Clervaux in 1910, settling in a Neo-Romanesque abbey designed by architect Johann Franz Klomp. The abbey gained territorial independence from the local bishop in 1937 but faced exile during World War II under Nazi occupation, returning only in 1945. Today, the community follows the Rule of Saint Benedict, emphasizing communal prayer, Gregorian chant, and Eucharistic celebration. The monks also engage in pastoral care, spiritual retreats, and artistic endeavors, including notable Gregorian chant recordings. The abbey has cultural significance, having influenced figures like Icelandic writer Halldór Laxness and composer Georges Lentz, reflecting its spiritual and artistic heritage.
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Astuce: Visitors should consider attending the communal prayers or Gregorian chant performances to experience the abbey's spiritual atmosphere. The best time to visit is outside major religious holidays for a quieter experience. Booking guided tours or checking the abbey's official website in advance is recommended to confirm opening hours and any special events. Discounts may be available for groups or religious pilgrims.
Faits intéressants
- •The abbey was designed by Dutch architect Johann Franz Klomp in Neo-Romanesque style.
- •It was established as a territorial abbey independent of the local bishop from 1937 to 1946.
- •The monks were expelled by the Gestapo during World War II and returned in 1945.
- •The abbey has produced notable Gregorian chant recordings, contributing to the revival of this ancient musical tradition.
- •Icelandic writer Halldór Laxness converted to Roman Catholicism while staying at the abbey.
- •Composer Georges Lentz wrote his solo electric guitar piece “Ingwe” during a stay at the abbey.
Histoire
Clervaux Abbey was founded in 1890 by Benedictine monks from the Abbey of St.
Maur of Glanfeuil, France, re-established after the French Revolution.
Due to anti-clerical laws in France in 1901, the monks were forced to leave and eventually settled in Clervaux, Luxembourg, in 1910.
Designed by Johann Franz Klomp in Neo-Romanesque style, the abbey became a territorial abbey in 1937.
During World War II, the monks were expelled by the Gestapo in 1941 and returned in 1945 after the war.
The abbey has since continued as a spiritual and cultural center.
Guide du lieu
Main Abbey Church1909-1910
The central place of worship featuring Neo-Romanesque architecture, where communal prayers and the Eucharist are celebrated daily by the monks.
Monastic Living Quarters1909-1910
The residential area where monks live a secluded life following the Rule of Saint Benedict, balancing prayer, work, and study.
Abbey Library and Archives
Houses religious texts, historical documents, and scholarly works, supporting the intellectual pursuits of the monastic community.
