Tourist Information, Vendee History,
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Abbaye du
Maillezais
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Situated on an island in the Golfe de Pictons the Abbey of
Maillezais is architecturally unique in the Poitou Saintonge. The Abbaye Saint
Pierre was built in 1003 on the site of a former castle of the Dukes of
Aquitaine several of whom were buried there and it was entrusted to the
Benedictine monks in 1010. The Abbey was pillaged in the 13th century on several
occasions by the count of Mervent-Vouvant.
In 1317 Pope John XX11 declared it
a Bishopric although he allowed the monks to stay.
Artists and men of Letters
always found a refuge at the Abbey. Francois Rabelais in 1518 during the Wars of
Religion was a notable refugee after being expelled from Fontenay-le-Comte.
It was made a Protestant stronghold by
Agrippa d'Aubigne in 1589 before being sold to the Duke of Rohan in 1610. In
1648 the Bishopric was transferred to La
Rochelle.
The Abbey was confiscated by the state just after the
Revolution and sold for demolition.
From the Abbey's esplanade visitors
can view the imposing remains of the cathedral and the seven halls of its well
preserved monastic buildings which include the refectories, a cellar, a salt
store, dormitories and the kitchen
There are several events throughout
the year:
The Festival Des Abbeye: classical and sacred
music;
Sentinelle du Marais: Famous people in the history of
the Abbey. 8 July -26 August;
Sunday to Thursdays 14h30, 16h15 & 20h It
includes a tour of the abbey.
Custumed tour of the abbey for 5 to
9 year olds on Sundays to Thursdays at 10h30, 11h45, 15h30 &
18h
Christmas Fair in a reconstructed Sinai village in
December.
Open every day;
1st April to
31st May & 1st September to 31st September 10h to 12.30 & 13h30 to
18h
1st June - 31st August. 10h to
19h.30
Tarif: Adult 5 euros, Student and
Handicapped 3euros
under 18s
Free.
Photo gallery of the Abbaye du Maillezais
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