Initiated by the Ministry of Culture, the Nights of Reading celebrate their 10th anniversary from January 21 to 25, 2026. For this special edition, the theme “Cities and Countryside” encourages a journey through the contrasts and connections that shape our landscapes. Over five evenings, books take center stage in a lively, accessible festival held in remarkable heritage sites, featuring readings, guided tours, and performances. It’s a magical winter break designed to rekindle everyone’s love for words and stories.
In Val d'Oise, the Maubuisson Abbey opens its medieval gates for a special event on January 24th. Once a Cistercian convent for women, founded in the 13th century by Blanche of Castile, this historic site in Saint-Ouen-l'Aumône has now transformed into a contemporary art center.
Set within its medieval vaulted halls, sprawling gardens, and historic ruins, the abbey forms a captivating bridge between the ancient past and cutting-edge modernity. It’s a serene haven for reflection and tranquility, just a short drive from the heart of Paris.
On the occasion of Reading Nights, delve into the art of jaspage—a centuries-old craft of decorating the edges of books. Guided by a specialist, explore its origins inspired by the colorful veins of jasper stone, and learn how to create your own abstract, geometric, or illustrative patterns. This technique not only enhances the beauty of your books but also protects them from wear over time. Bring your favorite book to the abbey… and give it a one-of-a-kind makeover.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced book lover, this paper-cutting workshop invites you to add a splash of color to your books. Led by artist and illustrator Sande Thommen, create your own bookmarks by freely playing with shapes, cutouts, and colored papers. Since many readers like to have several books open at once — or enjoy giving handmade gifts — you’ll leave with a small collection of unique, personalized bookmarks.
Once the chapter room, the space where nuns gathered daily to read Saint Benedict’s rule, the foundation of monastic life, takes center stage again during Reading Nights. Pierre Adam, a stage actor and director, will lend his voice to a 17th-century text here, reviving its history.
This document, authored by the Abbot of Cîteaux after a visit to Notre-Dame la Royale de Maubuisson Abbey, describes daily life at the convent, balancing Cistercian principles with monastic routines. Today, it is preserved in the Val d’Oise departmental archives.
As part of the Nights of Reading, the Abbey of Maubuisson invites you to an evening stroll through the peaceful park under the cover of night. With a flashlight in hand, let the artworks scattered throughout the grounds tell their stories and reveal their colors, shapes, and textures. The enchanting night atmosphere, the natural heritage of the park, and contemporary art combine to offer an immersive, unusual experience right in the heart of the abbey’s grounds.
Dates and Opening Time
On January 24, 2026
Location
Maubuisson Abbey
Avenue Richard de Tour
95310 Saint Ouen l'Aumone
Prices
€6 - €16
Official website
www.nuitsdelalecture.fr
