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This 14 hectare walled site is the largest monastic complex in Europe.
Founded in 1101 by Robert d'Arbrissel, a controversial
visionary preacher, this dual-gender Benedictine community was set up under strict statutes to cater for monks, nuns,
lepers, vagabonds and reformed prostitutes. Unusually, the running of this complex was entrusted to an Abbess.
The abbey became a retreat for the aristocrasy. The imposing Abbey Church was consecrated in 1119 and is the burial place of Henry II, King of England, his wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine and their son Richard 'Coeur de Lion', King of England.
At the time of the French Revolution Fontevraud was the wealthiest Abbey in France. In 1792 by Revolutionary decree, the abbey became national property.
From 1804 to 1963 it was used as a prison, it then came under the auspices of the French Ministry of Culture and has undergone extensive renovation. the Abbey has become an arts centre, whilst the old St. Lazare priory, leper quarters are now a hotel.
Further information
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