Frigolet Abbey, Tarascon, France

Frigolet Abbey is a grand Premonstratensian monastery complex in southern France. It was founded about 960 at Frigolet by Conrad I of Burgundy on one of the numerous hills which lie between Tarascon and Avignon. It was initially occupied by Benedictine monks from Montmajour Abbey.

By the 12th century, the abbey was home to a community of Canons regular. The chapel of Our Lady of Good Remedy dates from this period. The canonical Augustinian community lasted until 1480, when the canons petitioned the Holy See to suppress the monastery. This request was granted by Pope Sixtus IV, at which time the monastery was abandoned. The chapel, however, remained a popular pilgrimage site.

In 1647, the Order of Saint Jerome were given possession of the derelict monastery. They worked to restore it, at the same time expanding the complex, enlarging the choir and sacristy, and erecting a chapter house. The community did not stay long, however, and were replaced in 1661 by the Discalced Augustinians. The friars of this order continued the work of the Hieronymites, but also did pastoral care in the surrounding region, providing support to the local clergy.

At the time of the French Revolution, it was suppressed and sold by the French First Republic. From that time it changed hands frequently. Frigolet was reoccupied by the Premonstratensians in 1923 and remains in operation.

Pope John Paul II issued a pontifical decree titled Sacra illa ædes that raised one of its structures to the status of a minor basilica on 12 June 1984.

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User Reviews

Robert Tointon (2 years ago)
The prettiest Abbey I have ever been to! Such vibrant colours. I’ve never seen a place like it.

Paula Cronin (2 years ago)
Pretty place to walk around

Rachida ERAIFAY (4 years ago)
Are you looking for a unique visit, enjoyable family afternoon, I will suggest this place. There is a car park, and while you visit the abbaye you can then walk in the woods and enjoy with your kids. We were lucky to find a den !

Mr. Jones (5 years ago)
Beautiful place in a park-like setting, free admission. There is a busy shop to buy items made by monks, including beer. The abbey itself was very beautiful. A must see if in the area.

Michael Golden (5 years ago)
Such a well kept and maintained Abbey. The grounds are good for walking around with several cafes. The church and chapel are simple but effective with paintings and frescoes in a demurred light. They are amazing.

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The arrival of the Maurist monks in 1659, after the disasters of the Wars of Religion, helped to get the abbey back on a firmer spiritual, architectural and economic footing. They erected a large monastic building one wing of which fitted tightly around the chapter house (which was otherwise left as it was).

Frigolet Abbey

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