Convent of the Grey Sisters

Convent in Amiens

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chabe01

Hidden within the quiet streets of Amiens lies a place of reflection and calm — the Couvent des Sœurs Grises. Once the home of the charitable Grey Sisters, this site has been part of the city's fabric since 1486. Though time, revolution, and war have changed its face, its spirit remains very much alive. Today, its surviving cloister walls form the “Square du Cloître des Sœurs Grises,” a peaceful public garden that honors the order's centuries-long dedication to healing and service.

For travelers seeking a quieter, more contemplative side of Amiens, this square is one of the must-see places in Amiens. Surrounded by greenery and steeped in history, it offers a rare glimpse into the city's religious and humanitarian past, just a short walk from the more bustling landmarks.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Information
How to Get There
Is the Couvent des Sœurs Grises Worth Visiting?
Other Sites Nearby

History and Significance

The story of the Couvent des Sœurs Grises begins in the late 15th century, when the Sisters — members of the Third Order of Saint Francis — settled in Amiens at the Hôpital Saint-Nicolas-en-Coquerel. Their mission was simple yet profound: to care for the sick, shelter travelers, and help the poor. Over the centuries, the convent grew, with new buildings added in the 16th and early 18th centuries as their work expanded.

The French Revolution brought an end to the monastic community, and the convent was sold as national property in 1793. Later, during World War II, bombings in May 1940 destroyed much of what remained, but parts of the cloister and crypt survived. Recognized for their historical importance, these remains were officially listed as historic monuments later that year.

Today, the space is not a convent but a small oasis — a reminder of faith, resilience, and compassion that continues to resonate. It's a highlight of any walking tour of Amiens for those who enjoy discovering quiet corners where history whispers rather than shouts.

Things to See and Do

The Square du Cloître des Sœurs Grises offers a tranquil break from city exploration. Visitors can walk along the old stone walls that once framed the cloister, admire fragments of Gothic architecture, and imagine the life of the Grey Sisters who once lived and prayed here. Benches and flowering plants make it a perfect spot for reading, sketching, or simply pausing to enjoy the peace.

Interpretive plaques on-site provide insights into the convent's history, while the surrounding neighborhood hints at Amiens' layered past — where medieval devotion meets modern urban life. It's one of the things to do in Amiens that lets you slow down and see the city through a more intimate lens.

Practical Information

Best time to visit: Spring through autumn when the garden is in bloom
Entrance fee in Euros: Free
Opening hours: Generally open during daylight hours
How long to spend: 20–40 minutes
Accessibility: Flat pathways; suitable for all visitors
Facilities: Benches and shaded areas; no restrooms on site
Photography tip: Capture the soft contrast between the old stone and the greenery during early morning light
Nearby food options: Small cafés and bakeries nearby, especially toward Rue des Jacobins and Rue Lamarck

How to Get There

The Couvent des Sœurs Grises (Square du Cloître des Sœurs Grises) is located in the historic center of Amiens, within walking distance of the cathedral and the Musée de Picardie. From the Amiens train station, it's about a 10- to 15-minute walk. Local buses also serve the area, and public parking can be found nearby.

Is the Couvent des Sœurs Grises Worth Visiting?

Yes — especially for travelers who appreciate quiet, authentic places steeped in local history. It may not be grand or crowded, but its simplicity and serenity make it one of the best places to visit in Amiens for those who want to connect with the city's spiritual and humanitarian legacy.

Other Sites Nearby

Amiens Cathedral – The city's Gothic masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Musée de Picardie – One of France's oldest museums, showcasing art and archaeology.
Maison de Jules Verne – The famed author's former residence, filled with fascinating memorabilia.
Belfry of Amiens – A historic tower offering panoramic city views.
Parc Saint-Pierre – A green expanse perfect for picnics or riverside walks, often visited on walking tours of Amiens.

The Couvent des Sœurs Grises may no longer echo with the chants of nuns, but its calm and dignity endure. This spot is one of the best places to see in Amiens if you're drawn to quiet spaces where the city's deep compassion and history still linger in the air.

The Convent of the Grey Sisters appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Amiens!

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