Abbaye d'Orval, Florenvill

The Abbaye d'Orval really is the "Versailles of the monasteries", especially for photography a perfect location in almost any type of weather. The old ruins of the original church surrounded by large grounds and abbey garden are very impressive. The remains of the rich architecture can still be seen, with rows of wide columns, arches, thick walls providing many beautiful views. My preference for photographing this site is a less sunny day, with no hard shadows and some clouds in the sky it's easy to capture some very nice photos. The site itself is nearly 1000 years old and over the centuries the original church was destroyed a few times, finally in 1793 by French revolutionary troops. The current more recent abbey and new church cannot be visited, and still a noticeable peaceful place of devotion. The abbey is still in use and well known for its history and spiritual life. It's even more famous for its local production of the best Trappist beer in Belgium named Orval and a specific abbey cheese. Both an extra reason to enjoy a visit to this abbey.

Always a pleasure to spend some time there. Really relaxing place, and the serenity it gives is overwhelming.