Belgian historic site's café closed due to structural instability

The café area of the historic Kluis van Vrijhern in Bilzen-Hoeselt has been closed with immediate effect due to critical stability problems, the municipal government announced. The decision was made after a recent inspection by an architect and a structural engineer revealed a rapid deterioration of the building's condition.

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The walls of the café section and the old vault are no longer stable. Safety can therefore no longer be guaranteed.

Mayor Bruno Steegen explained that while previous studies did not indicate acute risks, the situation has worsened significantly. "The walls of the café section and the old vault are no longer stable. Safety can therefore no longer be guaranteed," he stated. Consequently, the municipality has closed the affected buildings to the public. However, the chapel remains accessible, and religious services will continue as usual.

To address the immediate safety concerns, the municipality plans to install support beams within four weeks. This temporary measure aims to restore stability and allow the café section to reopen. The historic building, dating back to the 18th century, is a popular destination, known as a pilgrimage site and a starting point for walks.

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We want to install support beams as quickly as possible to ensure stability again. We hope to do that within 4 weeks. Then the café section can open again.

A comprehensive renovation of the Kluis is planned for the longer term, described as a "very large project" by Mayor Steegen. The goal is to fully restore the building and enhance its appeal as a tourist attraction. The renovation is anticipated to commence at the end of 2027, with a budget allocated for this extensive undertaking exceeding 2 million euros.

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That is a very large project. We want to restore the building completely, so that it can become a real attraction in Bilzen-Hoeselt. We hope to start that renovation at the end of 2027.