Belleperche Abbey

Cordes-Tolosannes, France

Belleperche Abbey is a former Cistercian abbey in Tarn-et-Garonne. It was founded between 1130 and 1140 by the d'Argombat family at a location about 10 kilometres from the later site. In 1143 it affiliated itself as a daughter house of the Cistercian primary Clairvaux Abbey. At this point it was transferred to an allod on the bank of the Garonne, where it carried out viniculture, horse-breeding, and cattle-breeding. Belleperche became one of the largest monasteries in southern France, with eight granges, including Angeville, and 60-80 monks in its heyday. The original building was already replaced by 1230 with a new construction on enlarged foundations on the riverbank. In 1563 a new Abbot's lodge was erected.

The abbey's decline began with the Hundred Years' War, and further damages were caused in 1572, during the Huguenot Wars. The monastery was restored (1604-1614), but was dissolved in 1791 as a result of the French Revolution. The abbey was converted into a castle, agricultural estates, and domestic residences, and unused buildings were demolished or fell into ruin.

A restoration was begun in 1993. The now demolished church was consecrated in 1263. It was 75 metres long and 20 wide, with polychromatic floor-tiles and an octagonal bell tower, modelled on Saint Sernin in Toulouse, above the crossing. The six bays of the chapter house were vaulted between 1250 and 1255. The rectangular cloister measured approximately 46 x 38 metres.

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Details

Founded: 1130-1140
Category: Religious sites in France
Historical period: Birth of Capetian dynasty (France)

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

KSK Line (6 months ago)
A surprising and inspiring place! I was truly amazed by this visit to L’Abeillie, which is also a tableware museum. It is a place where renovated buildings and others left in their original state mingle, which gives a unique charm to the whole. We could undoubtedly improve certain details, but the experience is already very interesting! The tableware exhibitions really impressed me. the magnificent views of the balconies were a big favorite. Small downside: the set tables are separated from visitors by glass, and I find that a little unpleasant. Ropes instead might have worked better. Also, there was no audio guide, which is a shame because the small explanatory sheets are not very practical. But overall, we really loved it! An original and enriching place to discover.
isabelle Sindin (Isa) (7 months ago)
The Abbey is a place full of history and serenity. Nestled on the banks of the Garonne, this Cistercian abbey impresses with the beauty of its architecture and the tranquility of its surroundings. The visit allows you to discover the fascinating history of the place, particularly through the table arts museum, unique in its kind. This is a place not to be missed for history lovers.
Alexandre DAGAN (8 months ago)
A large building which has suffered the ravages of time but has been rehabilitated by the department. The cloister hosts shows or concerts. The permanent exhibition recognizes the history of the place and its developments. The lounges offer a beautiful view of the river. Two exhibitions: one on Chinese tea and teapots, one on tableware. Both very interesting.
Iulian Ezoteric (10 months ago)
Pretty interesting expo inside about the history of eating ustensils and china pots, etc. There is no way to walk around the area, it is all only for cars - annoyingly. Can knly drive, park, see the abbey, drive away.
Kurt Vanmaeckelberghe (2 years ago)
Fabulous!
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