Bonne-Espérance Abbey

The Abbey of Bonne-Espérance is in Vellereille-les-Brayeux, in the municipality of Estinnes, Belgium. It is about 4 km southwest of the city of Binche.

 History 
In 1126, Raynard, the lord of Croix-lez-Rouveroy, gave part of his land in Ramegnies to Hugues de Fosses, the abbot of Prémontré. Hugues sent a group of Premonstratensian monks led by Odon. In 1127, they founded a new monastery. After moving several times, they finally settled in their current location around the year 1130.

In the 12th and 13th centuries, the community received many lands, covering thousands of hectares. The abbot Philippe de Harveng became well known as a scholar during this time. The abbey remained stable until the 14th century.

In the 16th century, political and religious troubles affected the region. The abbey was looted many times and became poor and in debt.

In the 17th century, the abbey started to rebuild its buildings. Rich supporters, including governors of the Spanish Netherlands, helped with money. After the French Revolution, the abbey was closed and sold. The remaining monks were able to buy it back, but it was hard to restart the religious life there.

In 1821, the monks gave the abbey to the diocese of Tournai. In 1830, the diocese created a school at the site. Today, it is known as the Notre-Dame de Bonne-Espérance College.

 Architecture and protection 
The buildings of the old abbey were not destroyed during the French Revolution. The whole site was protected as a historical monument in 1973. Since 1993, it has been listed as Exceptional Heritage of Wallonia.

Other websites

Category:Wallonia's Major Heritage
Category:1130 establishments
Category:12th-century establishments in Europe
Category:Establishments in Germany
Category:1794 disestablishments
Category:1790s disestablishments in Europe
Category:Disestablishments in Germany
Category:Establishments in Belgium
Category:Monasteries
Category:Buildings and structures in Belgium
Category:Hainaut (province)