The Belgian Pontifical College (Dutch: Belgisch Pauselijk College; French: Collège ecclésiastique belge; Italian: Pontificio Collegio Belga) in Rome is a Belgian Catholic educational institution.[1] Founded in 1844, the college is the residence for students sent by the Bishops of the Belgian dioceses to study in Rome.
At first it was located in the home of Aerts, rector of the Belgian national Church of S. Guiliano. In 1845 the ancient monastery of Gioacchino ed Anna at the Quattro Fontane was purchased. The Belgian episcopate supports the students and nominates the rector.[4]
It has been home to many famous residents, in particular the young Karol Wojtyla residing here between 1946 and 1948 together with his friend Gustaaf Joos.[5] During his studies at Rome, Leo Joseph Suenens resided at the college and also served as the college librarian. Another famous resident was Yves Congar.
Use
The college is the residence for students sent by the bishops of the Belgian dioceses to study in Rome. It is also the main residence of the Belgian clergy when in Rome. The students participate in the Clericus Cup.[6]