Just outside the town of Vaals, near the point where the borders of The Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium touch, Saint Benedictusberg Abbey is located. Also known more informally as ‘Mamelis’, after the name of the area, you travel up onto a scenic berg (hill) to get there. From a distance, two round turrets rise above the treetops, which arouse one’s curiosity about those who live on this hilltop retreat. On arrival, the solemn gray building announces the ascetic lifestyle of the monks.
This abbey follows a strict interpretation of the Rule of Saint Benedict, from whom the abbey derives its name. Only male guests are welcome to stay overnight, and they are expected to participate in the daily routine alongside the monks. You live with the monks, eating and praying together. A stay at Mamelis, will provide guests ample time for self-reflection and meditation, away from outside distractions. Guests come to appreciate the silence, order, and ‘head-space’, in contrast to the hectic world of work and family-life. It is therefore important to be self-reliant, and it is advised to have some experience with a monastic lifestyle before staying on retreat. An unusual feature of the abbey is that the monks recite the liturgy in Latin. This contributes to a sacred atmosphere, but may only be understood by a few.
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