The Abbey of La Prée


Fondation and developpment
The French Revolution
Revival in the XXth century
The Abbey of La Prée, built in 1140 in the time of Saint Bernard de Clairvaux, embody the cistercian spirit of simplicity and devotion. Hiding in the Segry municipality, this abbey stands out by its austere architecture and its monastic life life dedicated to praying and manual work.
In 1791, the French Revolution marked a turning point for La Prée. Closed and sold for a national building, it lost its religious vocation and went trough a time of private propriety.
In 1954, La Prée rebirth thanks to the assotiantion of the Petits Frères des Pauvres (little brothers of the poors), becoming a place for retirement for old and alone people. In 1991, an artist residence was created, enriching its cultural legacy. In partnership with l'Académie des Beaux-Arts since2002, La Prée welcomes artists and holds many cultural activities.
Today, the abbey of La Prée is a vibrant place where history, art and solidarity meets. Visit this amazing place to discover a living and inspiring heritage, witness of centuries of transformation.