Jerusalem

Jerusalem in Venray, Netherlands, is a site steeped in history and spiritual significance. This former monastery and later girls' boarding school has a legacy that stretches back to the 15th century, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in religious history, architecture, and education.

The Origins of Jerusalem

The story of Jerusalem in Venray begins in 1467 when a monastery was established under the influence of the Modern Devotion movement. This movement emphasized a return to the practices of early Christianity and a focus on personal piety. The monastery, dedicated to Saint Anthony the Abbot and Saint Ursula with the Eleven Thousand Virgins, was inhabited by the Canonesses of Saint Augustine. These women lived a life devoted to copying books, weaving cloth, and educating girls. In fact, they were the only institution in Venray, aside from the Latin school, that was permitted to provide education.

However, the monastery's tranquil existence was disrupted in 1802 when Napoleon ordered its dissolution. The then-rector, Saedt, sold the building in 1810 but continued to live there with the remaining former canonesses until his death in 1835. In his will, he bequeathed the building to the Saint Peter's Chains Church, with the stipulation that it should be used for the education of girls as soon as it was legally possible.

A New Chapter: The Ursuline Convent and Girls' Boarding School

In 1838, a new chapter began for Jerusalem when the region temporarily came under the authority of the Catholic Belgian government, allowing the establishment of a new convent. Pastor Lambertus van Elsberg of Venray, with the help of Bishop Cornelis van Bommel of Liège, invited a group of Ursuline nuns from Tildonk, Belgium, to Venray. On September 27, 1838, eight young Ursuline sisters arrived in a covered wagon and began the reconstruction of Jerusalem.

The Ursuline nuns transformed Jerusalem into a renowned girls' boarding school, gaining a reputation throughout Catholic Netherlands and beyond. In 1915, they established the first Roman Catholic girls' grammar school in the Netherlands, and in 1928, they founded a secondary girls' school. These institutions were merged in 1968 to form the R.K. Scholengemeenschap Jerusalem, a comprehensive school for girls.

The Decline and Transformation

Despite its illustrious history, the Ursuline community in Venray faced challenges in the 1970s due to a decline in religious vocations. The post-war convent building was sold to the municipality of Venray in 1974 and was converted into a town hall. In 1995, the school was closed as part of a major reorganization of education in the Horst-Venray region. Many of the staff and faculty from Jerusalem moved to the newly established Dendron College in Horst.

Although the school and convent were no longer operational, the name Jerusalem lived on through the Jerusalem Arts Centre, which offered dance, music, painting, drawing, and theater education in the former school building. Unfortunately, this arts center was also closed in 2017 due to the cessation of subsidies.

The Legacy of Jerusalem

While the original medieval monastery and the 19th-century convent-boarding school buildings no longer exist, the remaining post-war structures have been designated as municipal monuments. These buildings stand as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of Jerusalem in Venray.

Among the notable alumni of Jerusalem are Lucie Vuylsteke, a pharmacist and politician; Leonora Gisberta Leeuwenberg, a chemistry teacher and rescuer of hidden Jews during World War II; and Elisabeth Nuijens, a historian and charter master. Their achievements reflect the high standard of education and moral values imparted at Jerusalem.

Visiting Jerusalem

Today, visitors to Venray can explore the site of Jerusalem and reflect on its historical significance. Although the original buildings are gone, the remaining structures offer a glimpse into the past. Walking through the area, one can imagine the daily lives of the canonesses, the Ursuline nuns, and the many girls who received their education here.

Jerusalem in Venray is not just a place; it is a story of devotion, education, and resilience. Its history is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the importance of education in shaping the lives of individuals and communities. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, Jerusalem in Venray is a destination that offers a rich and rewarding experience.