Clairvaux Abbey

Clairvaux Abbey (Clara Vallis) was a Cistercian monastery in Ville-sous-la-Ferté, 15 kilometres from Bar-sur-Aube. The original building, founded in 1115 by Bernard of Clairvaux, is now in ruins; the bulk of the present structure dates from 1708. Clairvaux Abbey was a good example of the general layout of a Cistercian monastery.

From 1808 to 2023, the grounds were occupied by Clairvaux Prison, a high-security prison. As of 2024, it is in the process of being transferred to new ownership as a site oriented toward tourism.

Address
Rue de L’Abbaye 17, Ville-sous-la-Ferté, France

Established
1115