Sixt Abbey
Description
Sixt Abbey is a former abbey of Augustinian canons located in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, Haute-Savoie. Founded before 1144, it belonged to the Abondance Abbey congregation and played an important role in developing pastoral life in the high mountains during the Middle Ages. The abbey was closed in 1792 following the French invasion of Savoy.
The site is situated at about 720 meters above sea level on a terrace above the Giffre River. Only part of the original complex survives today, including the church, granary, former abbatial residence, and presbytery, all listed as historical monuments since 1997.
Throughout the Middle Ages, the abbey grew wealthy and influential, supported by the lords of Faucigny. It was repeatedly rebuilt, notably after a major fire in 1680. After the French Revolution, the buildings were sold and reused as an inn, hotel, and for other purposes.
Today, the former abbey is undergoing restoration and archaeological research, with plans to transform it into a cultural and museum site.
Address
Route du Fer a Cheval 105, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, France
Established
12th century
Wikipedia article