Saint-Michel-en-l'Herm Abbey

Saint-Michel-en-l'Herm, France

The Abbey of Saint-Michel-en-l'Herm dates from 682 AD when it was constructed by Benedictine monks from Noirmoutier. It was destroyed by Vikings in 877 AD. The new church was completed in 1047.

In 1569, Protestants attacked it, killing approximately 200 monks. The motives for the attack are still debated, but one theory is that the attackers sought treasure and manuscripts hidden by the Bishop of Luçon.

The final destruction took place during the French Revolution when the abbey was confiscated and most of buildings destroyed.

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Details

Founded: 682 AD
Category: Religious sites in France
Historical period: Frankish kingdoms (France)

Rating

4.3/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Thib64 M (9 months ago)
Great place steeped in history. The guide was great ?.
Chantal Panem (9 months ago)
Interesting visit and brought to life by an enthusiastic, competent and caring young guide. To be completed with a visit to the André Deluol sculpture museum
Alain DECHAUX (9 months ago)
Very informative visit with a rather original living guide... if you are in the area, don't miss it to relive a moment in the history of France...
Vasseur Tiffany (10 months ago)
very pretty, guide Clément very nice, too bad not to see a little more.. but very interesting, my children liked it (10,7,4) to do!! and great low price
CALI (2 years ago)
Place that I wanted to visit for a long time because very mysterious behind its large gate. It was done with a young guide who was very friendly but unfortunately too infantilizing (his games are reserved for a very young audience) which spoiled his speech, which was otherwise interesting. He made us waste time that could have been used to make a complete visit. He was also always looking at his watch and watching us like children, apparently afraid that we would disturb the "very strict" owners on their privacy, it seems! In short, visit a little "starched" by all these rules but magnificent place which is worth the detour and really fascinating history.
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