2024

LILY PARK AND ABBEY

Abbey monastery and convent

This 8 ha park, located in Dammarie-les-Lys, offers an amazing view of the ruins of the royal abbey of Notre-Dame-du-Lys! This former Cistercian abbey was founded by Blanche de Castille and Louis IX in 1244. Long abandoned and then transformed into an animal enclosure during the Revolution, it was then sold as a ruin at the end of the 18th century. It is now classified as a Historic Monument. To enjoy the place, a beautiful summer day is preferable: these imposing transept, choir and chevet still in place, in their green setting under a beautiful blue sky, impress at first glance! Surprisingly, it is possible to walk among the remains without any barrier disturbing the walk; hence the presence - alas - of some very unwelcome graffiti on the stone! In any case, this is enough to satisfy the archaeology enthusiast who will be able to browse as he pleases. Note the presence, nearby, of designed gardens, as well as the Didier Lockwood Music Centre.

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