The third MUDEC Discovery Tour of the semester will take place this coming Friday with a trip to Orval Abbey and Bouillon Castle in Belgium. Orval Abbey is a famous Cistercian monastery, founded in 1132. Completely destroyed during the French revolution, it was only rebuilt during the first part of the 20th century. In order to raise funds for the reconstruction, a brewery was created inside the abbey and Orval now produces one of the most renowned Trappist beers. In addition, a very distinctive cheese is also produced. We will visit the ruins of the medieval abbey and the museum followed by lunch.

Bouillon is home to a castle originally built in the 8th century, which was home to Godfrey of Bouillon, leader of the First Crusade in 1096. In addition to a guided tour, we will attend the falconry show at the castle, featuring buzzards, eagles, owls and vultures.