Stijn Streuvels (1871-1969) made a name for himself with novels such as De vlaraagd, De teleurgang van den Waterhoek, Prutske and the novella Life and death in the ast. With his large and varied oeuvre about Flemish rural life, Streuvels became one of the most important Dutch-language writers of the twentieth century.
WRITING SPACE THEN AND NOW
Streuvels built Het Lijsternest in 1905, looking for a place to write in peace. Through a wide window you still have a wonderful view from his writing table over the beautiful, rolling Ingooigem landscape that inspired the author. He continued to live there with his wife Alida Staelens all his life.
Streuvels did not want a statue, but he hoped that the Thrush's Nest would be preserved intact after his death. And that happened. The Province of West Flanders bought and restored the house and opened it to the public, a task that has since been taken over by the Flemish Government and the Letterenhuis. In the winter months, writers take up residence in Het Lijsternest.
EXPERIENCE
The Thrush's Nest has been preserved as Streuvels knew it, with the works of art by his friends, his travel souvenirs, his extensive library and his writing desk. The visitor imagines himself to be a guest of the author. A tablet with photo material and films guides you through the house, garden, life and work of Stijn Streuvels. After your visit, you can explore the region he loved so much with various walking routes based on Streuvels and his work.