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Abbey · Stavelot, Liège
Stavelot Abbey
Former abbey founded by Saint Remaclus in the 7th century, seat of the Principality of Stavelot‑Malmedy. The restored buildings house the Principality museum, the Spa‑Francorchamps circuit museum and the Guillaume Apollinaire museum.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Stavelot Abbey
The abbey of Stavelot was founded in the mid‑7th century by Saint Remaclus and for more than a thousand years was the centre of a small ecclesiastical principality, ruled by prince‑abbots, that included Stavelot and Malmedy. The great abbey church was demolished after the French Revolution; the foundations and the base of the tower remain in the courtyard.
The surviving buildings, such as the 18th‑century abbatial palace and the former stables, have been restored and house three museums. The Musée historique de la Principauté de Stavelot‑Malmedy tells the principality’s story with models, objects and multimedia displays.
In the vaulted cellars, the Spa‑Francorchamps circuit museum displays cars, motorcycles and documents covering more than a century of racing. On the upper floor, a museum remembers the poet Guillaume Apollinaire, who spent a summer in Stavelot in his youth.
The abbey has a café and a shop in the courtyard, and hosts temporary exhibitions and music and theatre festivals in summer.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 3 hours for the three museums.
Best time
At any time of year; the courtyard is more pleasant in good weather. The abbey is open every day; check opening times on the website.
How to get there
In the centre of Stavelot, at the cour de l'Abbaye, a few minutes’ walk from place Saint‑Remacle.
Tip
Use the audio guide: it links the courtyard ruins to the history presented in the museums.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Stavelot Abbey
Which museums are in the abbey of Stavelot?
The Historical Museum of the Principality of Stavelot-Malmedy, the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit Museum, and the Guillaume Apollinaire Museum.
Who founded the abbey of Stavelot?
Saint Remaclus, in the mid-7th century.
How long does a visit to the abbey take?
About three hours to see the three museums at a relaxed pace.