Trizay Priory

Trizay, France

The Saint-Jean-l'Évangéliste Priory in Trizay is an ancient Benedictine priory founded in the 11th century, situated in Trizay, Charente-Maritime. Initially a dependency of the Abbey of La Chaise-Dieu, it underwent restoration from 1994. The priory's convent buildings and church remnants are open to visitors and house a contemporary art center. Classified as a historical monument, it is also listed among the treasures of Saintonge.

History

Founded in the 11th century by a lord of Tonnay-Charente, the priory later became a dependency of the Abbey of La Chaise-Dieu. Benefitting from generous donations, it faced challenges during the Wars of Religion. The priory went through a commendatory period, suffering from neglect and destruction. Sold as a national asset in 1791, it became an agricultural enterprise. The church served as a parish until 1843 when it closed, replaced by a chapel. Classified as a historical monument in 1920, the priory underwent patient restoration since 1994 and now houses a contemporary art center.

Architecture

The priory features unique Romanesque church remnants from the 11th century with an octagonal structure, distinctive chapels, and ornate sculptural elements. The convent buildings include the chapter house, monk's hall, cellar, and dormitory. Despite the lost cloister, archaeological evidence suggests its existence, and discovered graves hint at religious or local lord burials.

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Details

Founded: 11th century
Category: Religious sites in France
Historical period: Birth of Capetian dynasty (France)

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Pilar (2 months ago)
Wonderful place, the remains of an ancient abbey full of history and mystery, helpful and attentive staff at the reception desk
Chantal Magnier (15 months ago)
Super abbey, friendly and very pleasant welcome. Very well maintained and full of explanations. Not to miss
Wendy Matheson (4 years ago)
Magnificent re-purposing of an Abbey into an art museum. Love the new aesthetics, especially the stained glass windows.
Lucia Palmer (5 years ago)
Very interesting .historical .worth a visit
René Christensen (7 years ago)
Syndicat d'Initiative de Trizay - a beautiful little monastery. Which can be recommended if you want to see some history from this region. All info is on site.
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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).