Serving as the headquarters of the famous Villeroy & Boch ceramics company for more than 200 years, the Benedictine Abbey in Mettlach boasts a rich history. Its Old Tower stands as the oldest religious building in the Saarland and it’s surrounded by a garden that’s planted with a diversity of native deciduous and evergreen trees.
The former Benedictine monastery was purchased by Jean-François Boch in 1809 and restored following damage during the 18th-century War of the First Coalition. The success of his ceramics company, Villeroy & Boch, resulted in fur-ther construction within the grounds while maintaining the historic character of the abbey.
Today the abbey and headquarters of Villeroy & Boch are open to visitors to learn about the history of the company and admire its modern-day creations, as well as soak up the ambiance of its atmospheric setting. Explore the Museum of Ceramics that details more than two and a half centuries of ceramic-making his-tory in Mettlach, then browse the permanent exposition “Anna and Eugène Boch – From the beginnings of modernity” that details the life and work of the Boch family’s renowned painters.
Step into the world of Villeroy & Boch at the Tableware Discovery Centre where you can admire the themed and seasonal tableware settings featuring the brand’s celebrated products. It’s a great way to be inspired for your own home or just keep up to date with the latest in home decor trends.
In the middle of the old abbey is the Abteigarten Restaurant where you can relax with a drink or dine on regional and seasonal fare after your visit.