The AbbeysStones steeped in history

The Abbeys

The only remains of Saint-Winoc Abbey, the Square and Pointed Towers survived its destruction during the French Revolution. Built on the“Groenberg” (Green Mountain), they rise to an altitude of 22 metres.

Walk in the footsteps of the monks Journey to the heart of monastic history

At the dawn of the French Revolution, Saint-Winoc Abbey was radiant and prosperous. The gateway to the Champs de Mars, now a public garden, the Porte de Marbre was originally the entrance to the courtyard of the abbey palace.

The abbey is characterised by the presence of two towers:

the Tour Carrée, built at the crossing of the transept of the old abbey, is the oldest surviving building in the town.
and the Tour Pointue, located at the entrance to the Abbey.

The nave extended westwards over seven bays to a second tower. The choir extended 30 metres to the east of the square tower. It has suffered greatly over the centuries: wars and fires have brought it down more than once.

Abbaye Saint Winoc Bergues and information panel — ©Pointed tower of Saint-Winoc Abbey and tourist information panel|CCHF

Bergues and Watten, two abbeys, one destiny

Only the Square and Pointed Towers survived the destruction of Saint-Winoc Abbey, in their capacity as a navigationallandmark. Ships entering the Dunkirk channel were guided in a safe direction by the two towers of Bergues.

In 1812, the Tour Pointue collapsed due to a lack of support, and the Ministry of the Navy had it rebuilt. The town bought the site at the beginning of the 20th century to turn it into a public garden.

Listed as a National Heritage Site since 1998, the Tour de l’Abbaye de Watten has been classified as a Historic Monument since 10 February 1909. The site includes a 15th-century tower and the surrounding walls, the only remains of the religious establishment founded in the 11th century. The former Watten Abbey is surrounded by earthen fortifications dating from the 17th century, forming a remarkable ensemble culminating at an altitude of 72 metres.

Saint Winoc Abbey Bergues — ©Abbey of Saint Winoc Bergues, Square Tower and Pointed Tower|CCHF

Wooden door of the Square Tower of the Abbey of Saint Winoc Bergues with explanatory plaques on the yellow brick walls — ©Door to the square tower of the Abbey of Saint Winoc Bergues|CCHF

Saint Winoc Abbey — ©Marble gateway and the Abbey towers

Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to visit the towers of the Abbey?
Unfortunately, the towers are not open to the public, but if you wish, you can immerse yourself in their history thanks to our Legendr application, History in your pocket! Discover the Abbey in virtual reality (card board available from the office). Don’t miss out, it’s free.
What has become of the treasures of Bergues Abbey?
Many of the rich library’s 60,000 volumes have been lost. The finest works were reserved for the municipal libraries of Bergues, Dunkirk, Bourbourg and Gravelines.
The paintings were dispersed to neighbouring museums and churches, but many of the works of art disappeared… and it only took a few years to ruin the work of eight centuries!
And Watten Abbey?
The site is exceptionally open for the Fortified Sites Days, the European Heritage Days and a few dates in summer.
Free admission to the mill bastion and the Sentier de la Montagne all year round.

FavouritesAnd to find out more

BerguesBeer Marathon Flanders Festival

Looking for a sporting and festive occasion? Take part in the MB2F on 27 and 28 September 2025 on the Abbey site! The programme includes 3 races: a 13 km, a half marathon and the famous marathon!
And on Saturday evening: open-air concerts, “guinguettes”, food trucks and chip shops.

WattenMedieval festival

On the site of the Abbey, medieval market and great medieval festival with many stands, entertainment, tournaments, games for children and the whole family.
See you on 9 and 10 August 2025.