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Belgium
Flanders
South Limburg
Hasselt

Sint-Truiden

Attractions and Places To See around Sint-Truiden - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Sint-Truiden. Sint-Truiden is a historic city located in Belgium's Haspengouw region, known for its rolling hills and extensive fruit orchards. The area features a mix of ancient landmarks, impressive architecture, and serene natural landscapes. It offers opportunities to explore medieval history, cultural sites, and picturesque surroundings.

Best attractions and places to see around Sint-Truiden

  • The most popular attractions is Reading Between the Lines (See-Through Church), a man-made monument that allows visitors to view the landscape through its steel plate structure. This artistic church creates a unique visual experience by appearing present yet absent from the landscape.
  • Another must-see spot is Herkenrode Abbey Site, a historical site with a nature reserve. Visitors can explore the restored historic buildings and a botanical garden housing over 500 different plant species.
  • Visitors also love Twijfelgrens Sculpture by Fred Eerdekens, a man-made monument located in a rustic landscape. This sculpture, made of pleated lines, reveals a hidden word when viewed from a specific position.
  • Sint-Truiden is known for its historical sites, natural features like orchards, and unique cultural attractions. The region offers a variety of places to see, from ancient abbeys to modern art installations.
  • The attractions around Sint-Truiden are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1200 upvotes and 780 photos shared.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Reading Between the Lines (See-Through Church)

Highlight • Monument

This transparent church, aptly named 'Reading Between the Lines', is a work of art by PIT, designed by the architectural duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh. It symbolizes the decay of the church. The ten-meter-high artwork consists of one hundred stacked layers of sheet steel in the shape of a church in Loon. Thanks to the unique construction, the beautiful Haspengouw landscape remains visible through the church. In 2012, this transparent church received the 'Building of the Year' award from the renowned website ArchDaily. It was the first time a Belgian project received this honor. Enjoy the view; this is a place with one of the most breathtaking panoramas.

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Herkenrode Abbey Site

Highlight • Historical Site

This abbey is over 800 years old. The historic buildings have been restored, and today it's a place to visit and relax. The surrounding nature reserve houses a botanical garden with over 500 different species. Discover it on a self-guided tour or with a guide!

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Grootloon High-Stem Orchards

Highlight (Segment) • Natural

is indicated as established woody planting with heritage value High-stem orchards at Grootloon church.
The area around GrootLoon is characterised by the high density of high-stem orchards. The Ferraris cabinet map (1771-1778) already shows that the plots around the buildings are all occupied by orchards. These orchards were aimed at production for the residents and not for sale or trade. These orchards were grazed by cattle. The high density of high-stem orchards can also be seen on later topographic maps. Around the beginning of the 20th century, orchards were also planted in the wider area, this fits in with the period of agricultural history in which high-stem orchards in Haspengouw were on the rise and would cover large parts of the landscape.


High-stem orchards are also already depicted on the Ferraris map near the Grootloon church. Only directly around the church. In the course of the 19th and 20th centuries, the area will expand further to the west. The orchards consist of various types of fruit and are of mixed age. Here and there, hawthorn hedges are used as a fence and there is an iron entrance gate. Many of the orchards are grazed, which contributes to the historical value. At this location, the value of the orchards is not only historical, the aesthetic value is also of great importance. The visual relationship between the orchards on the rolling landscape and the church is very strong. The high-stem orchards in Haspengouw and certainly in the area around Grootloon where there is still a high density, have a high experiential value and contribute to the regional identity of the landscape.

High-stem orchards have a high ecological and natural value, they are a particularly attractive habitat for many plant and animal species. The combination with extensively managed grassland is particularly interesting for nature.
id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/301842

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In Borgloon, Fred Eerdekens (°1951, Belgium) shows a pleated line in the landscape. Along the Roman cobblestone you will find a wood-like sculpture in which you can read the word 'doubt border' - only when you look from the right position. Fred Eerdekens often uses language as a medium for his artworks. At the same time, his work is a reflection on how language works. For Doubtful Border, you have to take the right position to be able to read the “hidden” word and gain insight.
z33.be/openruimte/twijfelgrens

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Floating Chapel of Helshoven

Highlight • Monument

At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view of the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area.

“Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden artwork consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was struck by the cherry blight virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits in cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The artwork symbolises the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.

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VISITFLANDERS
May 26, 2026, Zwevende Kapel van Helshoven

At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view of the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area. “Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden artwork consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was struck by the cherry blight virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits in cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The artwork symbolises the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.

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This transparent church, aptly named 'Reading Between the Lines', is a work of art by PIT, designed by the architectural duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh. It symbolizes the decay of the church. The ten-meter-high artwork consists of one hundred stacked layers of sheet steel in the shape of a church in Loon. Thanks to the unique construction, the beautiful Haspengouw landscape remains visible through the church. In 2012, this transparent church received the 'Building of the Year' award from the renowned website ArchDaily. It was the first time a Belgian project received this honor. Enjoy the view; this is a place with one of the most breathtaking panoramas.

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No doubt it's beautiful here...

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The Herkenrode Abbey site is an interesting combination of culture, history, nature and an ideal starting point for walks.

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The Twijfelgrens is located at the Bollenberg viewpoint, which can be reached on foot or by bike. If you are driving, park at the car park on the Sint-Truidersteenweg, between the Grootloonstraat and the Neremstraat. From the car park, follow the signposted (blue or orange) walking route. (Visit Limburg)

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Beautiful to walk through with all those young blossoms.

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When you are in the church, you can admire the beautiful hilly landscape through the 'walls'. In the distance you can see the church of Borgloon. Many photographers also take a photo where you can see the church of Borgloon through the see-through church. You have this view from a certain spot in the meadow.

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Many standard orchards that you used to see everywhere in Haspengouw have disappeared in recent decades. Natuurpunt Borgloon is committed to preserving standard orchards and giving every opportunity to the plants and animals that feel at home there. Local farmers help with management. The rare acorn mouse with its striking black mask and long bushy tail lives in the hedges and wooded areas. It is mainly active at night and sleeps more than six months a year. The little owl lives in hollow trees or special nest boxes. And from spring onwards it is buzzing with activity, the flowering plants are visited by many bees and insects.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique artistic attractions in the Sint-Truiden area?

Sint-Truiden offers several distinctive art installations. You can visit Reading Between the Lines (See-Through Church) near Borgloon, an architectural marvel that allows you to view the landscape through its steel plate structure. Another intriguing piece is the Twijfelgrens Sculpture by Fred Eerdekens, which reveals a hidden word when viewed from a specific position. Additionally, the Floating Chapel of Helshoven, made from felled cherry trees, offers breathtaking views from Helshoven's highest point.

Where can I experience the historical and cultural heritage of Sint-Truiden?

Sint-Truiden is rich in history. Explore the impressive Abbey Tower, a remnant of a powerful Benedictine abbey, offering panoramic city views. The Grote Markt is a central hub surrounded by historic buildings like the Stadhuis (City Hall) with its UNESCO-listed belfry. Don't miss the Herkenrode Abbey Site, an 800-year-old historical site with restored buildings and a nature reserve, or the UNESCO World Heritage Sint-Agnesbegijnhof (Beguinage) with its historic houses and church murals.

What natural landscapes can I explore around Sint-Truiden?

The region around Sint-Truiden, known as Haspengouw, is famous for its natural beauty. You can wander through the extensive Haspengouw Orchards and Blossom Fields, especially stunning in spring. The Fruitvallei offers old fruit orchards, streams, and meadows for relaxation and walking. The Herkenrode Abbey Site also features a nature reserve with a botanical garden. For a unique visual experience, visit the Grootloon High-Stem Orchards, which have significant historical and ecological value.

When is the best time to visit Sint-Truiden to see the fruit blossoms?

The best time to visit Sint-Truiden to witness the spectacular fruit blossoms in the Haspengouw orchards is typically during spring, from late March to mid-April. This period transforms the landscape into a sea of white and pink flowers, offering picturesque scenery for walks and cycling.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Sint-Truiden?

Yes, several attractions in Sint-Truiden are suitable for families. The Reading Between the Lines (See-Through Church) and the Floating Chapel of Helshoven offer unique visual experiences that can captivate children. The Herkenrode Abbey Site, with its historical buildings and botanical garden, provides space for exploration. Additionally, exploring the Haspengouw Orchards and the Fruitvallei offers pleasant outdoor activities for all ages.

What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?

Sint-Truiden is an excellent base for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, such as the 'Café Coureur – Saint Genevieve Church, Zepperen loop' or the 'Jonas Vlayenpad – Along the Kleine Gete loop'. For mountain biking, consider routes like the 'Floating Chapel of Helshoven – Helshoven Chapel and Hermitage loop'. If you prefer running, there are trails like the 'Sint-Agnesbegijnhof – Long Boardwalk loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Gravel biking around Sint-Truiden, MTB Trails around Sint-Truiden, and Running Trails around Sint-Truiden guides.

Are there hiking trails near Sint-Truiden's attractions?

Yes, the region offers many hiking opportunities. The Fruitvallei features walking routes of varying lengths through old orchards and natural areas. The Herkenrode Abbey Site serves as a starting point for walks through its nature reserve and botanical garden. You can also explore the picturesque Grootloon High-Stem Orchards. For specific running trails, consider the 'Sint-Agnesbegijnhof – Long Boardwalk loop' or the 'Nieuwenhoven Castle loop' as detailed in the Running Trails around Sint-Truiden guide.

What are some significant religious sites in Sint-Truiden?

Sint-Truiden has a rich religious heritage. The Abbey Tower is a key remnant of the Benedictine abbey. The Sint-Gangulfuskerk is the oldest church in the city, dating back to the 11th century. The Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk is a Gothic church known for its colorful murals and treasury. The Sint-Agnesbegijnhof also features a late Romanesque and early Gothic church with impressive murals.

Are there any museums or unique cultural experiences in Sint-Truiden?

Beyond historical buildings, Sint-Truiden offers unique cultural insights. Visit Museum De Mindere to learn about Saint Francis of Assisi and Franciscan heritage. Explore Huis Nagels 1892, a 19th-century notary's house offering an 'upstairs-downstairs' experience. Don't miss the impressive Festraetsuurwerk (Festraets Astronomical Clock), a complex 6-meter tall clock with approximately 20,000 parts.

What are the options for public transport to attractions in Sint-Truiden?

Sint-Truiden's city center and many of its main attractions are accessible by public transport. The city has a train station, and local buses connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. For specific routes and schedules to individual attractions, it's advisable to check the local public transport provider's website or visit the tourist information office upon arrival.

What do visitors enjoy most about Sint-Truiden?

Visitors frequently praise Sint-Truiden for its blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The unique artistic installations like the See-Through Church are often highlighted for their visual appeal. The serene atmosphere of the Herkenrode Abbey Site and the picturesque Haspengouw orchards, especially during blossom season, are also highly appreciated. The city's rich history, evident in its medieval landmarks and cultural sites, provides a captivating experience for many.

Are there any attractions related to the region's fruit-growing heritage?

Absolutely. Sint-Truiden is at the heart of Haspengouw, a renowned fruit-growing region. You can explore the extensive Haspengouw Orchards and Blossom Fields, particularly beautiful in spring. The Fruitvallei is a natural area featuring old fruit orchards. Additionally, the Grootloon High-Stem Orchards offer a glimpse into traditional fruit cultivation with historical and ecological significance. The Chapel of Guvelingen also screens 'Divine Fruit,' a film about the history of fruit growing in the area.

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