Nestled in the charming city of Roermond, the Ursulinenklooster stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history and architectural brilliance that defines this Dutch region. This former convent, with its intriguing past and captivating presence, invites visitors to step back in time and explore a piece of Roermond’s cultural heritage.
The story of the Ursulinenklooster began in the mid-17th century when the mother superior of the Ursuline convent in Sittard sought permission to establish a new convent in Roermond. On May 1, 1646, the city council granted this request, and by August of the same year, the Ursuline sisters had settled into a property on Steegstraat. Their mission was clear: to provide free education to impoverished girls, a noble cause they upheld until 1783.
The convent faced a significant setback in 1665 when a devastating city fire damaged the building extensively. Undeterred, the sisters rebuilt with the city’s support, even constructing a field kiln next to the Cattentoren to produce the necessary bricks. The baroque convent church, which was consecrated on October 21, 1685, by Bishop Reginald Cools of Roermond, became a symbol of resilience and faith, although it no longer stands today.
In 1783, Emperor Joseph II of Austria ordered the dissolution of all 'useless' monasteries. However, the Ursulinenklooster was spared due to its vital social role. Yet, its reprieve was short-lived. In 1796, the French authorities secularized the convent, forcing the sisters to relocate to Lier in 1798. The convent’s furnishings were sold, and the complex itself was auctioned off in 1799 to Mathieu Moreau from Sainte-Walburge near Liège.
Over the years, the convent underwent numerous transformations. By 1822, the church, school, and brewery had been demolished, and the vegetable garden was leased out. The building eventually came into the possession of the Claessens family and later, in 1836, to notary Felix Milliard, who married Marie Ida Claessens. The Milliard family undertook restoration work, adding a Neo-Romanesque bay window and extending the west side in 1860.
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In 1923, the Ursulinenklooster was sold to the Limburgse Land- en Tuinbouwbond (LLTB) and served as a Catholic agricultural school until 1967. The building was later acquired by the Central Rabobank in 1979 and transformed into offices. Today, it functions as the 'Ondernemershuis' or 'Entrepreneurs' House,' hosting the LLTB, the Chamber of Commerce of Roermond, and the House for the Arts Limburg.
A visit to the Ursulinenklooster would be incomplete without exploring the Ursulinen Chapel, nestled within the garden. Built in 1696, this brick chapel is adorned with decorative marlstone bands on its pilasters and window frames. The façade features intricate brickwork, the Van Afferden family coat of arms, and a niche housing a statue of Saint Ursula. Despite the various ownership changes, the chapel remained under the LLTB's care until it was sold to Stichting Rura in 2000 for a symbolic guilder.
As you wander through the Ursulinenklooster, you’ll be captivated by its blend of historical charm and modern functionality. The building’s robust architecture, with its brick facades and distinctive Neo-Romanesque features, offers a glimpse into the past while serving contemporary needs. The Ursulinenklooster stands as a monument to the enduring spirit of the Ursuline sisters and their significant contributions to education and society in Roermond.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Ursulinenklooster promises a rich and rewarding experience. Its walls echo tales of resilience, adaptation, and transformation, making it a must-visit landmark in Roermond. As you explore this historic site, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical narratives that have shaped this enchanting Dutch city.
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