Provincial domain of Hélécine

Heylissem Abbey was founded in the early 12th century by lord René de Zetrud. At that time, the Norbertine canons, a very rich and powerful community of Hesbaye, had settled on the site.

For the next two centuries, Heylissem Abbey greatly increased its wealth and then consolidated its religious authority. The abbey also had several windmills and a brewery and several farms, which he worked to meet his needs.

The strategic position of the Heylissem Abbey, located on the border with the Duchy of Brabant state, on the Hesbay side, guaranteed its protection against the Dukes of Brabant, who gave it a fortress role. The abbey and the surrounding area were the scene of battles several times.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, bloody wars regularly forced monks to flee the premises, only to return to repair the damage. The buildings of the convent were burned during the war of 1507; also the church, the refectory, the dormitory and the abbot's house were set on fire in 1568 following the wars of religion; the abbey was occupied by the Prince of Orange and his troops in 1635; and was sacked in 1693 following the Battle of Neerwinden.

The task of rebuilding the abbey was entrusted to the Brussels architect Laurent Dewez. He is responsible for the basic shape of the present dome.

After the French Revolution, the abbey was deconsecrated and became a castle, which would pass from hand to hand, until it was transformed into a sugar refinery by order of its owner, Gustave van den Bossche, in the early 19th century.

At the end of the 19th century, the architect Alphonse Balat was called to perform several conversions: he raised the dome and added a terrace surrounded by a balustrade. The side façade has also been remodeled in a neoclassical style.

In 1962, the Brabant Provincial Council bought back the castle with its outbuildings and park, opening it to the public.

Whether for an hour or a day, with family, friends or business associates, or for private or professional events, Hélécine Châteaux offers a range of activities for some unforgettable experiences. The cabins, the sumptuous Dôme room, the brand new Orangerie, the Ecurie, the Dependance and the Theater are an ideal setting for hosting receptions and corporate events.

Outside, you walk along the path that runs alongside the three fishing lakes in a magnificent landscape accompanied by geese, ducks and swans.

A small path leads us to the goat pen. A little further on, near the grills, the deer and their young rest in the shelter of the trees.

At the end of the walk, the playground and minigolf surrounded by a variety of plants and flowers await for a fun with the family. Right next door, you can have a drink on the terrace of the Pop Up Bar.