The Saint-Jean-l'Évangéliste Priory in Trizay is an ancient Benedictine priory founded in the 11th century, situated in Trizay, Charente-Maritime. Initially a dependency of the Abbey of La Chaise-Dieu, it underwent restoration from 1994. The priory's convent buildings and church remnants are open to visitors and house a contemporary art center. Classified as a historical monument, it is also listed among the treasures of Saintonge.
Founded in the 11th century by a lord of Tonnay-Charente, the priory later became a dependency of the Abbey of La Chaise-Dieu. Benefitting from generous donations, it faced challenges during the Wars of Religion. The priory went through a commendatory period, suffering from neglect and destruction. Sold as a national asset in 1791, it became an agricultural enterprise. The church served as a parish until 1843 when it closed, replaced by a chapel. Classified as a historical monument in 1920, the priory underwent patient restoration since 1994 and now houses a contemporary art center.
The priory features unique Romanesque church remnants from the 11th century with an octagonal structure, distinctive chapels, and ornate sculptural elements. The convent buildings include the chapter house, monk's hall, cellar, and dormitory. Despite the lost cloister, archaeological evidence suggests its existence, and discovered graves hint at religious or local lord burials.
Kakesbeck is one of the largest medieval fortifications in Münsterland and the oldest castle in Lüdinghausen. The imposingly grown complex originated in 1120 as a motte, a small hilltop tower castle. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle was extended onto two islands, but it was not until the 14th century that it underwent significant alterations and extensions under the von Oer family. The estate experienced its heyday in the middle of the 18th century, when it covered an area of almost one square kilometre and consisted of five further outer castles in addition to the core castle, which were secured by ramparts and moats.
The well-maintained condition of the castle today is thanks to the late Wilfried Grewing, the former lord of the castle. The foundation named after him has been particularly committed to preserving the property since 2020.