Green Brussels - Rood Klooster

When you walk around in the center of Brussels, it could be hard to believe that the Belgian capital is actually one of the greenest capitals in the world. When you do some exploring however you will notice that every municipality constituting the Region of Brussels has at least one (big) park. And then there are domains like Rood Klooster in Oudergem/Auderghem.

The residential municipality of Oudergem/Auderghem is located in the southeast of Brussels. The domain itself is quite close to the center; you can reach it by car and public transport (metro Hermann Debroux and tram 44). The name Rood Klooster means "red cloister" and probably refers to a red hermitage, which was established in the 2nd half of the 14th century. Afterward, the domain became an Augustinian priory.

Rood Klooster is no longer a priory, nor does it serve any other religious purpose anymore. Part of the buildings is nowadays used as a small cultural center and a cafe. But most people come here for a walk on the grounds; the domain is part of the majestic Sonian Wood, one of the biggest Belgian forests and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There is a playground in the domain and during our walk, we saw lots of families enjoying a picnic.

As I have announced earlier today on our sister website, Travel Memories, the next days I will publish a lot of pictures of the Château d'Antoing, which served once as the main location for the horror movie The Devil's Nightmare.