Refuge of Sint Truiden

The abbots of abbeys and monasteries had early refuges or refuges built in the walled towns. They can stay there if they are in the city or in transit. In times of war, the refuges also provide protection. The refuge of the Abbey of Sint-Truiden was founded in the 16th century by the Benedictine abbey of Sint-Truiden. Smart, because that way they can keep in touch with the archbishop in Mechelen. Today this beautiful building is part of the Archbishop's Palace. The buildings are connected by a covered bridge. The Archbishop's Palace is not open to visitors.Starling pots have been incorporated into the graceful tower in which starlings build their nests. Until the 19th century, starling was a true delicacy.
source visit mechelen.be

The abbots of abbeys and monasteries had refuges built in the walled cities at an early age. They can stay there when they are in town or passing through. In times of war, the refuges also offer protection. The sanctuary of the Abbey of Sint-Truiden was founded in the 16th century by the Benedictine abbey of Sint-Truiden. Clever, because this way they can keep in touch with the archbishop in Mechelen. Today this beautiful building is part of the Archbishop's Palace. The buildings are connected by a covered bridge. The Archbishop's Palace is not open to visitors.The elegant tower contains starling pots in which starlings build their nests. Until the 19th century, starling was a true delicacy.

Very pretty historic building.