HAMBRIAN ABBEY
Founded in the century, this abbey is an architectural gem, partly preserved in an exceptional green setting.
It’s one of the department’s must-sees! If you’re ever in the area, you can’t help but make a long stop here. Notre-Dame de Hambye was founded around 1145 on the land of the local lord, Guillaume Paynel. Benedictine monks from the Tiron congregation settled in this isolated valley of the Sienne and built a monastic complex characteristic of the Norman Gothic style. The abbey enjoyed a prosperous period in the 14th century, before gradually dying out until the 18th century. In 1810, the abbey became a stone quarry. Today, the vaulted abbey church still overlooks the conventual buildings, which include a remarkable 13th-century chapter house. In the choir of the church lies the body of Louis d’Estouville, defender of Mont-Saint-Michel. The "Histoires de l’abbaye" exhibition recounts the last two centuries of the abbey’s history, from its partial dismantling during the French Revolution to its current restoration. The exhibition devoted to Hambye’s painted canvases explains their role in decorating and protecting the alcove beds. Last but not least, the site is a popular venue for temporary and permanent exhibitions. Step back in time with a guide for an in-depth visit. These guided tours take place in season, and the site also offers digital tablets to complete your immersion in distant times in a modern way.
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