The enormous castle-abbey near the town of Bilzen is known as the Landcommanderij Alden Biesen (land commandership of Alden Biesen). It is said to be the largest castle between France's Loire River and the Rhine River. In the 11th centurty, the Count of Loon granted some land between Bilzen and Rijkhoven to some knights of the German Knights Order. This order took care of the wounded crusaders, and later also treated ill people. The present brick buildings dates from the mid-16th to late 18th century. In addition to the castle itself, there is a church, a gallery, an orangery and several other side buildings, as well as extensive and beautifully laid French-style gardens. The castle became a private property after the French Revolution and is now a cultural centre of the Flemish Community. The castle was devastated by a fire in 1970, but was entirely restored.