Ancien couvent des Récollets

The Ancien couvent des Récollets, originally known as the Recollettenklooster van Nijvel, is a captivating historical gem nestled in the charming town of Nivelles, Belgium. This ancient convent of the Order of Friars Minor Recollects stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Franciscan architecture in the region and offers a fascinating journey through time for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The History of Ancien couvent des Récollets

The roots of the Ancien couvent des Récollets stretch back to the 1230s when the Franciscans first established their presence in Nivelles, just two decades after the death of Saint Francis of Assisi. However, the current structure of the convent was entirely rebuilt starting from 1524, with significant financial support from Archduchess Margaret of Austria and Charles V. The construction of the church was completed in 1540, and a cloister was added shortly thereafter, partially reconstructed in the late 16th century.

In 1598, the friars affiliated themselves with the branch of the Recollects, and the convent quickly became one of the most significant in the province, known for its spiritual influence. The Recollects were known for their austere lifestyle, providing liturgical services in parish churches and visiting the sick. The convent underwent substantial renovations in the mid-18th century, including the expansion of the south wing, the addition of a large library, and the creation of a beautiful garden with a fountain.

Exploring the Architecture

The Ancien couvent des Récollets is a fine example of late Gothic architecture. The church, with its simple rectangular structure measuring 60 meters in length, features a single nave with ten bays leading to an apse. The design reflects the Franciscan spirit of poverty, with minimal decoration and a focus on simplicity. The south side of the church is flanked by the convent buildings, arranged around a cloister with four galleries, two stories high, showcasing 16th-century facades.

Of the convent buildings, the east wing has retained its 16th-century appearance, including some Gothic elements. The south wing, which housed the refectory, the grand dormitory, and the library, was expanded and elevated in the 18th century, presenting a long classical facade. The west wing, also modified in the 18th century, maintained its original volume and included the main entrance, guest rooms, kitchen, and heating room.

A Journey Through Time

The Ancien couvent des Récollets has experienced a variety of uses over the centuries. In 1796, the convent was officially closed, although some friars continued to live there until 1804. The buildings then served multiple purposes, including a military hospital in 1815 for soldiers wounded at Waterloo, a general hospital and hospice from 1818 to 1870, a communal college in 1872, and later a royal athenaeum in 1919.

The church, which had been used as a gymnasium and art academy, was classified as a historical monument in 1936, restored between 1960 and 1968, and returned to religious use for the parish of Saints-Jean-et-Nicolas, whose church was destroyed during bombings in 1940. Subsequent restoration work on the cloister's facades, galleries, and the eastern wing was completed by 1972.

The Future of the Convent

In recent years, the future of the Ancien couvent des Récollets has been a topic of considerable debate. In 2007, the city of Nivelles acquired the south and west wings of the convent. However, due to high renovation costs, the city announced the sale of these wings in 2014, with the condition that certain heritage elements be preserved. In 2017, the convent was sold to a real estate developer, who proposed partial demolition and construction of apartment buildings and underground parking.

This proposal sparked significant opposition, supported by a citizen petition and heritage organizations like Europa Nostra, which listed the site among the most endangered heritage sites in Europe. Despite favorable recommendations from heritage commissions, the requests for preservation were denied by the local government, leading to ongoing legal battles and public campaigns to protect the site's historical integrity.

Visiting the Ancien couvent des Récollets

Today, the Ancien couvent des Récollets remains a place of historical and architectural significance. Visitors can explore the serene Esplanade du Souvenir, an arboreal esplanade on the south side of the convent, which is adorned with various monuments, including a war memorial. This space offers a unique blend of architectural and natural heritage, providing a harmonious entrance to the town of Nivelles.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect, the Ancien couvent des Récollets offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a reminder of the enduring importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.