Auberive Abbey, Auberive, France

The Cistercian Abbey of Alba Ripa, founded in 1135 by 12 monks from Clairvaux, has played a key role in French history, influenced by notable figures.

Built in the typical Bernardine style, it features a church with an east-facing flat-walled chevet, sections for choir monks and lay-brothers, and a communal north wing. Situated in a remote area, the monks mastered water resources, diverting the Aube River for self-sufficiency.

After flourishing in the 13th century, the abbey declined during the 100 Years’ War. It endured religious wars in the 16th century and underwent reconstruction in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Following the dissolution of monastic orders in 1790, the abbey saw industrial and residential use before becoming a prison in 1856, housing female prisoners, including the communard Louise Michel. Later, it served as a reform school and returned to religious use between 1925 and 1960.

The Solvay company owned it from 1960, using it as a holiday camp until 2004.

User Reviews

Tasha G (7 months ago)
Lovely gardens next to the Aube River, will preserved ancient Abbey buildings with interesting contemporary history.

Bob Daniels (2 years ago)
Lovely village based around the old Monastery. Very photogenic and peaceful

Nawar (4 years ago)
It was great.. I like the decorations with all the sculpture

Jeroen Verhoeven (4 years ago)
Nice site, multilingual brochures for visitors. History of the building well described. On site contemporary art (sculptures/paintings) somewhat sinister or obscure

J L (4 years ago)
sometimes a few doors seem closed but they actually arent so I'd recommend trying them just so you don't miss anything

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Photo from Flickr, copyright w_lemay

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