Notre-Dame de la Grainetière Abbey

Les Herbiers, France

he Notre-Dame de la Grainetière abbey is located in the commune of Les Herbiers. It was founded in 1130 by Benedictine monks from the Abbey of Fontdouce en Saintonge. However, construction began in earnest at the end of the 12th century to become an ensemble considered to be exemplary of Romanesque art in Vendée.

Several times burned down or looted during the Hundred Years War, then during the Wars of Religion, the abbey was partly restored at the beginning of the 17th century. However, in 1760, only one monk remained. During the Revolution convent buildings were sold to a farmer and the abbey church was gradually demolished.

It was not until 1963 that the site was bought and a long restoration campaign began and in 1979, a priory was established within the walls (religious from the Notre-Dame d'Espérance congregation still occupy the monastery).

The remains of the primitive abbey are highlighted, in particular the west gallery of the Romanesque cloister, with its small semicircular arches and double columns, the chapter room transformed into a chapel, three apses of the transept of the church abbey and two defensive towers to the south, one of which, known as the Abbot's Tower, was restored in 2001.

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Les Herbiers, France
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Details

Founded: 1130
Category: Religious sites in France
Historical period: Birth of Capetian dynasty (France)

More Information

www.france-voyage.com

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Lydie Girard (10 months ago)
A place of contemplation, it is a very isolated place. Run by monks. This place is magnificent...it welcomes people who want to meet up
Claudine Fournial (12 months ago)
Arrival of the first monks in this Abbey in 1130, there are 12 remaining in 2023. This monument was attacked, burned during the wars of religion (1560-1596) then sold as a stone quarry in 1796 destroying 3/4 of the abbey. What remains is imposing and magnificent, the restoration completed in 2015 leaves the visitor in awe. A mass takes place every Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. A visit is essential!
Anne Laure Picard (16 months ago)
Very nice place. Too bad we did not have the guided tour which meant that we lacked explanation, but met several very nice monks
N D (16 months ago)
Very nice visit to do in a place steeped in history.
Sébastien (16 months ago)
Incredible place to visit for a total change of scenery.
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