Bellelay
Intro
Bellelay, which was founded by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Basel in 1140, has a rich religious past associated with the Norbertine religious order. Bellelay Abbey is the source of Tête de Moine PDO, a tasty cheese that is scraped into rosettes with a girolle cheese curler.
Bellelay Abbey church, which is situated at 940m a.s.l., has witnessed a great deal in its history. Having suffered fire damage and other problems, the abbey church was rebuilt in the baroque style in the 18th century by architect Franz Beer, after which it flourished. Today, Bellelay Abbey is a cultural centre. There are multiple contemporary art exhibitions and organ concerts held here each year.
Bellelay is also honoured for its local produce – Tête de Moine PDO was first produced here. Delighting taste buds for 800 years, this famous cheese is peculiar in that it isn’t cut into slices, but is instead eaten in rosettes. The girolle cheese curler was developed in 1982 to make it easier to form the rosettes. The Maison de la Tête de Moine has opened its doors to those who are curious about the rich history of this cheese, its traditions and anecdotes. An imposing building dating from 1768, it houses a museum, an historic dairy and a cheese cellar.
The Libell'lay Trail passes close to the abbey and offers a refreshing walk through peatlands around the shores of little Lake Noz. The nature trail is a natural habitat for multiple species of dragonfly and has been recognised as of national importance since 1991.
Guided tours of the abbey church:
Travel back in time to when the Norbertines founded Bellelay Abbey. Accompanied by a guide, visitors will discover the architecture and origins of Tête de Moine AOC. You can book this offer through Bernese Jura Tourism.
