Lessay Abbey

Lessay, France

It is not exactly known when the Abbaye de Sainte-Trinité in Lessay was established; other historians date it to 1056, Cologne University to 1105. The vaults of the church, built around 1100 are however probably the oldest in Normandy. The abbey flourished in the 12th and 13th centuries, but during the Hundred Years' War in 1356 it was burned and looted. The nave and tower were badly damaged and restored in 1385. Lessay Abbey suffered again in the French Wars of Religion, when it was looted twice. Again in World War II the bombings of Normandy invansion in 1944 destroyed it partially and restoration took 12 years.

References:

Wikipedia

The abbey was not bombed in 1944 but was deliberately blown up by German land mines before the Germans retreated.

Address

Rue Paul Jeanson 6, Lessay, France

See all sites in Lessay

Details

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

More Information

www.mondes-normands.caen.fr

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

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Coutances Cathedral (20,3 km)
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User Reviews

Tristram de Piro (2 years ago)
Built about the same time as the church in Avening, near Stroud. Either could claim to be the originator of the cross rib vault.

Pascale F (3 years ago)
Really pretty this abbey. Take advantage of taking a detour if you are not far because it is very pretty, with many other things around not to be overlooked for the beauty of the eyes. Sincerely good visit

Elizabeth-Jeanne Gosselin (3 years ago)
The abbey is free to enter and visits are organized for private parties in the summer of the Abbey. The explanatory panels deserve that we take the time to read them. When the sun crosses the stained glass windows it is magnificent!

Michael Potter (6 years ago)
Very interesting place

Alan C (AlanC-LAUK) (6 years ago)
Almost completely destroyed during the battle to liberate France the abbey building has been completely restored and a new modern organ installed. Quiet and peaceful, free entry. Closes 1830 according to the note on the door.

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