Founded in the 7th century on an estate planted with alder trees, Aulne abbey became a Cistercian monastery in 1147. In 1794, the buildings were burnt down. The main ruin is that of the Gothic church, built in the 12th and 15th centuries, and altered in the 16th century; the apsidal chapels and the porch are 18th-century additions. The monks built a number of industrial buildings on the banks of the Sambre, including a mill which still stands. To the south of the complex and 30 metres above it is a garden, the Jardin de la Montagne. The abbey complex is listed as part of Wallonia’s special heritage, and is becoming increasingly popular with visitors.
Monument and site listed (25-06-1980 and 24-04-1991)
Listed as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia