Description

Maredsous is the name given to both the abbey beer and the Benedictine abbey, found near Denée, between Namur and Dinant. Maredsous Abbey was founded in 1872, and was one of the first Belgian abbeys to re-establish its links with the country’s rich monastic past, after the destruction of the French Revolution (1789-1799).

Today, thirty-two monks live, pray and work in this pastoral location. They follow the Rule of St. Benedict – ‘ora et labora’ (pray and work) – a tradition that goes back to the year 529AD.

Unlike the Trappists though, this abbey no longer has a brewery within its walls: since 1963 the Maredsous abbey beers have been brewed, under licence, by Duvel Moortgat.

But while the monks may not be involved in the day-to-day brewing, the beers do still have an authentic abbey connection. The recipe comes from those of the original Benedictine beers, passed down over the centuries.

And current Abbot, Bernard Lorent, doesn’t neglect to keep an eye on all matters of hop, yeast and malt. The reason for its relatively ‘hands-off’ approach to brewing lies with the abbey’s strict interpretation of the Benedictine way-of-life. These are monks who have made a considered choice for a life of study and education.

Their lives are dedicated to prayer, work and hospitality. Not that the abbey wants to set itself apart from society. Far from it, in fact. Instead this small religious community has, for many years, established a way of life that’s in tune with the needs of wider society.

A number of monks are involved in teaching; others are to be found working in the library; some are active in various fields of research, or have dedicated themselves to the ‘Centre Informatique et Bible’ – an IT and Bible study centre.

The monks are also employed in the abbey’s art workshops, as well as in the cheese dairy. And of course, there are those responsible for the administration and functioning of the abbey. But whatever their task, they are sure to give visitors a heart-felt welcome. That’s because, at Maredsous, hospitality is paramount. It’s the Benedictine way.