Whether on the streets of Paris or in the heart of the Ile-de-France region, religious heritage reveals an unsuspected wealth. Abbeys and monasteries, some still in operation, others transformed into museums or living spaces, dot the region and tell the story of centuries of spiritual, artistic and cultural history. These buildings, veritable witnesses to our collective memory, help us to understand the role played by religious communities in the development of the region.
These architectural ensembles invite you to take a trip back in time: cloisters, churches, chapter houses and gardens are reminders of monastic organization and a life punctuated by prayer, study and work. Some have survived the passage of time in remarkable condition, while others have survived only in vestiges that hint at their original grandeur. All of them, nevertheless, open a precious window on the heritage of the Ile-de-France region. Whether you're a heritage enthusiast, a history buff or just a stroller, these sites are a must-see to better understand the soul of Paris and its region.
As the article is updated as new discoveries are made and visits announced, we recommend that you consult the page regularly to discover other fascinating heritage sites to visit in the Paris region.
The Collège des Bernardins: one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris to visit free of charge
Let's discover the Collège des Bernardins - one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris. Be sure to visit this 13th-century gem, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter and open to the public free of charge. Open all year round, this cultural space offers a variety of exhibitions and events, and even a café-restaurant. [Read more]
(Re)discover Royaumont Abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in Ile-de-France
Just north of Paris, in the Val d'Oise, stands the Abbaye de Royaumont, founded in 1228 by Saint Louis and his mother Blanche de Castille. This royal abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in the Île-de-France region, is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. With its listed buildings, Royaumont offers a fascinating insight into French medieval history. Many events now take place on the premises, and we take you on a journey of rediscovery. [Read more]
In Seine-et-Marne, discover the Gothic remains of a royal abbey (77)
In Dammarie-lès-Lys, in the heart of a tranquil park, the Gothic ruins of a Cistercian abbey founded by Blanche de Castille and Saint Louis in 1244 offer a romantic getaway for lovers of old stones and heritage to explore or photograph. [Read more]
The Tour de Jouarre and its Abbey, a Seine-et-Marne heritage treasure (77)
It's a piece of Île-de-France's religious heritage that deserves to be better known. Located within the walls of the still active Abbey of Notre-Dame de Jouarre, the Romanesque tower invites us to immerse ourselves in the town's history. [Read more]
Le Couvent de l'Annonciation, discover this church and its secret cloister in the heart of Paris's 8th arrondissement.
In the 8th arrondissement of Paris, a church with Byzantine charm and an Art Deco cloister are hidden away at the Couvent de l'Annonciation. Founded by the Dominicans in 1613, this discreet and inspiring site is open to visitors free of charge all year round. [Read more]
Maubuisson Abbey, a royal abbey turned contemporary art center in Val d'Oise (95)
Did you know? In the Val d'Oise, a former royal abbey has survived through the ages, from medieval times to the present day. Now a center for contemporary art, we tell you more about the astonishing Abbaye de Maubuisson! [Read more]
Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay by Paris Society unveiled, discover the exceptional hotel
The Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay, located in Cernay-la-Ville (Yvelines), has undergone a metamorphosis. Bought out by Paris Society, it's a veritable luxury hotel with a host of assets, including no fewer than 4 restaurants and 2 bars. We take you on a voyage of discovery. [Read more]
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