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

Corinne Servais (2 years ago)
Pas très loin de lyons-la-forêt où j'habite, je passe souvent devant et je peux pas m'empêcher de m'y arrêter pour admirer la filature LEVAVASSEUR , cette cathédrale industrielle de style Néogothique anglaise de 96mde long,26 de large et de 38m ,filature de laine,de coton et d'une manufacture de draps. Prendre des photos ,c'est magnifique,l'été commel'hiver,il y a de la magie dans ce paysage si reposant, d'ailleurs j'y suis allée hier.C'était une superbe balade à côté de l'abbaye Notre- dame de Fontaine Guérard. Je pense y retourner

Sophie Vason (3 years ago)
Magnifique abbaye qui peut être louée pour un mariage, ce qui donne des photos sublimes. A l'étage on peut admirer une jolie vue sur le petit jardin

Philippe Pinault (3 years ago)
Ancienne abbaye partiellement en ruines Tenue en état par une association Un bel endroit de la vallée de la l andelle

Adrien Cebulski (3 years ago)
Le site de l'Abbaye Notre-Dame de Fontaine-Guérard, est tout simplement magnifique

Natasha Adams (7 years ago)
The Abbaye was beautiful, the grounds had many plants. There was a nice kids program, though not 100% accurate because of the recent change in owners. There wasn't any answer key either, but there was a very nice prize!! The person selling tickets was very friendly and answered some of our questions and took our suggestions. The architecture was also very nice, but the main thing was the grounds, including the river passing right next to it and the Fontaine Guerard! Definitely recommended!

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