Fontaine-Guérard Abbey, Radepont, France

At the beginning of the 12th century, there was a simple priory on the site of current abbey. Around 1190, Robert, Earl of Leicester founded the Abbey of Fontaine-Guérard. The nuns joined the order of Cîteaux in 1207 as Daughter-abbey of Clairvaux, but did not receive Abbey status until 1253. By this date, the buildings we see here were complete; the church was consecrated in 1218. Sold for the “national good”, the abbey was then converted as a cotton mill, and then bequeathed in 1937 to the Salvation Army, whose Foundation even now manages the abbey and its restoration.

Fontaine-Guérard Abbey is considered by specialists as one of the finest examples of the Norman Gothic style, the rigor which takes its Cistercian purity. You will discover the nuns' building (chapter house, workroom, and dormitory) and its superb structure, the church, the original chapel modified at the 15th century and the surprising cave cellar. The gardens, including the medicinal one, are currently being restored. Throughout the tourist season, exhibitions and various workshops take place in these building classified “Historic Monument”, offering you exceptional enjoyment.

References:

cister.net

User Reviews

vjdc keuebjd (2 years ago)
Very pretty site, we went there for heritage days. There isn't much to see inside the abbey. Today there was an exhibition/sale of basketry, obviously we couldn't resist buying a little something. The gardens are magnificent and the setting is idyllic. Congratulations to the gardener(s), it’s sumptuous.

Charline LAURENCE (2 years ago)
Very nice place, with very beautiful flower gardens representing the 4 elements water earth fire air Energy site for people who like these sites

Cato Rawls (2 years ago)
Great place, especially for events

Thomas P. Johnsen (2 years ago)
Very nice and relaxing place in beautiful surroundings. Interesting with the history of the Cistercians founded in 1098 and named after the town of Cîteaux

Françoise Moussat (3 years ago)
The ruins of the abbey, nestled in the Andelle valley, are especially worthy of their rural setting. The former dormitory is fitted out to receive the public and host cultural events.

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There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.

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