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The Abbotsford Convent

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Located on the banks of the Yarra River, The Abbotsford Convent is an extraordinary arts, learning and cultural precinct in the heart of Melbourne, just 4kms from the CBD.

Editorial


In addition to being an historic landmark, The Abbotsford Convent (known locally as The Convent) is an important resource for the Melbourne arts community as well as being a great place to eat and drink under the watchful gaze of the ghost of the Convent Mother. Set on sprawling grounds overlooking Melbourne's Yarra River, the Convent is a well known incubator for creativity and the sharing of ideas, a place for community participation and enjoyment. Spend some time discovering a place of art, design, creativity and learning. And if it's just a matter of relaxing in the beautiful Convent surrounds, there are plenty of things to help you, including food, coffee, wine, nature, live music, picnics and pleasure. Grab a seat at one of the cafés or bars, or stock up at one of the monthly art, craft, fashion or food markets.

The Abbotsford Convent is steeped in history and interest. For over a century, the site housed a closed order of Good Shepherd Sisters, as well as the many hundreds of women they cared for. The Convent was decommissioned in the 1970s whereupon its heritage buildings and gardens were left exposed to the elements and rapidly began to show the scars of old age and neglect. A long and determined community campaign to save the Convent from re-development as a residential estate was waged until, in 2004, the State Government of Victoria gifted the site to the people of Victoria.

Today artists, arts organisations and creative agencies base their practice at the Abbotsford Convent and the many grand and unique spaces are available for conferences, meetings, major events, festivals, markets, weddings, parties and community gatherings.

Enjoy this unique inner-city cultural oasis, in fact, Make it a Habit!

Cath Pope, Citysearch

Event Listing

Fringe Furniture

The Abbotsford Convent 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford 2011-09-22

Start:22-Sep-2011

End:08-Oct-2011

2011-10-08

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2 User reviews (add yours)

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ursula gorzedowska
November 09, 2010


could more photos be printed of St. Mary's "class" the dormitories, refectory, bathrooms etc. they would bring back so many memories

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ursula gorzedowska
November 09, 2010


It really breaks my heart to see the place changed so much. The original farm and poultry farm, piggery, milking sheds and barn - all gone. everything has gone so yuppie.

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