ABBAYE ROYALE DE CELLES-SUR-BELLE
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The abbey boasts an impressive neo-Gothic nave, museum space in the former monks' cells, etc.
It all began in 1095, when a priory belonging to the abbey of Lesterps, witness to several miracles, became a place of pilgrimage on the outskirts of the Camino de Compostela. An abbey (Order of Saint Augustine) was built in 1137: today, only a few vestiges remain, including the abbey's extraordinary poly-lobed arched portal, visible on the town side. In 1568, during the Wars of Religion, the entire complex was practically razed to the ground. It wasn't until the 17th century and the spiritual impetus of the Counter-Reformation that a huge reconstruction project was undertaken, led by the architect François le Duc.
Accompanied by an audio guide, discover the imposing façade and its Ionic pilasters. Inside, the vestibule with its elegant columns leads into the rib-vaulted refectory. Upstairs, you'll find a museographic space in the former monks' cells. Holograms and touch-screen tablets complete the visit.
Cross the courtyard to reach the church. The proportions of its neo-Gothic nave are impressive. Very slender (70 m long, 27 m wide and 18 m high), it is bathed in light. Admire the contemporary organ overhanging the staircase leading to the 12th-century portal.
Access to the formal gardens is free. Numerous cultural events are organized in summer (see website), and for a bird's-eye view, there's a lookout point towards Melle (left).
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