Whispers of history echo here. This is Rouge Cloître Rood Klooster. A place steeped in centuries of devotion and intrigue. Right before you stands a former Augustinian priory. Founded in 1367 it flourished for centuries.
Imagine a time before Brussels’ bustling modernity. Picture hermits Gilles Olivier and Walter van der Molen. They built a humble hermitage in 1366. William Daniel a priest from Boendael even celebrated Mass there. Duchess Joanna of Brabant witnessed the founding charter in 1367. Soon the community adopted the Rule of Saint Augustine. Following the example of the nearby Groenendael Priory.
The Rouge Cloître Rood Klooster grew. By 1373 Bishop Gérard de Dainville of Cambrai confirmed its foundation. The following year it joined the order of Canons Regular of Saint Augustine. The community thrived. They received land and lakes from the Duchess of Brabant. They also gained privileges and tax exemptions. In 1381 construction of the church began.
Over the centuries Rouge Cloître Rood Klooster accumulated wealth. It housed a fine library and a renowned illumination workshop. Its location was ideal. Easy access to sandstone for building. The forest provided wood for furniture and heating. Abundant springs and ponds supplied fish. A water mill ground grain and pressed oil. Cattle grazed on cleared forest land. By 1400 an enclosure was built. Parts of it survive today.
The white sandstone church gleamed. It was decorated with paintings from Peter Paul Rubens’ studio. The priory became one of the most prestigious in the Spanish Netherlands. Its proximity to Brussels was key. Charles V Holy Roman Emperor Albert VII Archduke of Austria and Isabella of Spain all visited. Many other notable figures also stayed here.
The Dutch Revolt brought upheaval. In the late 16th century the priory was pillaged. The canons fled to Brussels seeking refuge. They remained there until the uprising ended. Finally in 1796 Rouge Cloître Rood Klooster was abolished. Today the municipality of Auderghem administers this historical site. The Rouge Cloître Rood Klooster stands as a testament to the rich history of Brussels. Its legacy lives on. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of this remarkable place.