Abbaye de Saint-Benoît

Abbey in Poitiers

Abbatiale Saint Benoit De Saint Benoit, Cloître
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sébastien Thébault

The Monks’ Dormitory (Dortoir des Moines) and Chapter Room (Salle Capitulaire) are part of the Abbaye de Saint-Benoît, a historic monastic complex near Poitiers. The abbey dates back to the 12th century, though its origins trace to the 7th century, when Saint-Achard founded a monastery in the region. Over time, the abbey became a significant religious center, surviving destruction by the Normans in the 9th century before being rebuilt. The Dortoir des Moines, where monks once slept, features a 15th-century wooden roof designed in the shape of an inverted ship hull, a rare architectural element in the region.

The Chapter Room (Salle Capitulaire), located on the ground floor, was historically used for monastic meetings and discussions. Its sculpted capitals and Romanesque arches reflect the artistic craftsmanship of the medieval period. During the Wars of Religion, the abbey suffered damage, and the Salle Capitulaire was repurposed as a stable. Restoration efforts in the 20th century helped preserve its historical significance, allowing it to serve as a cultural venue today.

Since 2004, the Monks’ Dormitory (Dortoir des Moines) has been used for art exhibitions and concerts, benefiting from its exceptional acoustics and natural lighting. The space accommodates 100 visitors, making it an intimate setting for cultural events. The Salle Capitulaire, with its smaller capacity, is ideal for workshops and smaller exhibitions. The city of Saint-Benoît actively supports artistic initiatives, acquiring works from exhibiting artists to enrich its municipal collection.

Visitors can explore these spaces as part of the abbey’s seasonal cultural program, which includes four major exhibitions per year. The abbey remains a protected historical monument, offering a glimpse into the monastic traditions and architectural heritage of the Poitou region.


The Abbaye de Saint-Benoît appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Poitiers!

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Visiting Abbaye de Saint-Benoît

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