Serenia Retirement Home

The Serenia retirement home (also called Solvay) was built in several phases. The façade (street side) of the building, as seen from the city to the left, was designed by architect Georges Hobé. This façade is a remnant of Villa Franeau, which was integrated into the new retirement home.

The name Villa Franeau comes from the then-owner Amélie Franeau, the wife of industrialist Albert Camion. Hobé was a friend of Camion and received several commissions from him (e.g., the post office). Thus, Hobé left his mark on the architecture of Bouillon.

Serenia is owned by the Tournay-Solvay Foundation, a charity founded in 1960 by Thérèse Tournay-Solvay, widow of Emile Tournay and daughter of Alfred Solvay (brother of Ernest, founder of the well-known Solvay dynasty). The family has been associated with the region for a long time, notably owning the Château des Amerois near Bouillon since 1927.

The home was inaugurated in 1964. Since 2014, further investments have transformed the institution into a residential and care facility that meets modern standards. It is located in a 4-hectare park with a stunning view of Bouillon and its castle. Its mission is to provide care and support to residents with dignity and trust.