The Holy Spirit College is one of the last residences in Leuven
to be exclusively inhabited by men.
It is also one of the oldest 'dormitories' in the world...
The college was founded in the 15th century to provide accommodation for seven poor theology students –
it was the first college to be founded within the university.
Thanks to generous donations throughout the centuries, the college continued to expand.
Like so many other buildings in Leuven, the college was badly damaged during World War II.
Nearing the end of the war, disaster struck:
the college was almost completely destroyed by allied bombs
that were actually intended for the train station.
This escape tunnel to Saint Michael's Church was damaged,
killing dozens of people.
Fortunately, the phoenix has risen from the ashes
and the building has resumed its original purpose.
It currently houses 150 students.
One of which is Jeroen.
Hi!
So I hear you are entering your final year. What are your plans?
Actually, I'm about to finish my last year here and I will
start an extra year in specialisation in taxation.
Great! Well, good luck!
In addition to studying, the students also like to enjoy the beautiful garden and of course… the bar.
In 1995, the college again became the proud owner of the Spoelberch Collection,
which is named after the noble family that bequeathed it
to the university more than a century ago.
It is this family that is one of the largest private shareholders in the Stella Artois brewery.