Montmajour Abbey, Arles

Abbey in Arles

Abbaye De Montmajour Arles
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Airair

Perched on a rocky rise just north of Arles, Montmajour Abbey commands both the landscape and the imagination. Once an island surrounded by marshes, this vast Benedictine complex is one of the must-see places near to Arles, embodying nearly eight centuries of spiritual devotion, architectural evolution, and artistic legacy. Its commanding presence, visible for miles across the Provençal plains, tells a story of monks, pilgrims, and artists drawn to its serenity and strength.

Visiting Montmajour feels like walking through the layers of Provence's soul — from the solitude of its rock-hewn hermitage to the grandeur of its medieval tower and the romantic decay of its later monastery. The play of light across ancient stone makes it easy to see why this abbey was a highlight of any walking tour of Arles for Vincent van Gogh, who immortalized its silhouette in his paintings.

History and Significance of Montmajour Abbey

Founded in 948 by Benedictine monks, Montmajour Abbey began as a small hermitage carved into the rock and grew into one of the most important monastic centers in Provence. Its earliest structure, the Chapel of St. Peter, reflects simple Romanesque elegance, with carved arches and floral capitals that still evoke quiet contemplation.

As the abbey’s wealth and influence expanded through the Middle Ages, it became a pilgrimage destination, particularly after receiving a relic of the True Cross, enshrined in the 12th-century Chapel of the Holy Cross. This remarkable structure, with its cross-shaped design and symmetrical beauty, remains one of the most admired examples of Provençal Romanesque architecture.

By the 14th century, the monks fortified the abbey to withstand turbulent times, erecting the imposing Tower of Abbot Pons de l’Orme, complete with battlements and machicolations. Later, in the 17th century, the Maurist congregation built a grand new monastery in classical style, reflecting a new era of scholarly and spiritual refinement. Though the Revolution brought decline, Montmajour’s majesty endured — and its romantic ruins became a muse for artists like Van Gogh, who found in its solitude a mirror of his own quest for meaning.

Things to See and Do in Montmajour Abbey

Exploring Montmajour is an immersive experience in stone, light, and silence. Start with the Hermitage and Chapel of St. Peter, where the oldest surviving sections are literally carved into the cliff — a sanctuary of shadow and simplicity that speaks to the earliest days of monastic life. The 12th-century cloister, with its central cistern and galleries adorned with carvings of beasts and foliage, forms the heart of the abbey and offers perfect moments for quiet reflection.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is another highlight, radiating balance and harmony in its design. From here, climb to the fortified Tower of Abbot Pons de l'Orme for panoramic views of the Camargue plains and Arles shimmering in the distance. The Maurist Monastery ruins, though in decay, convey the grandeur of the abbey's final centuries. Don't miss the exhibition spaces that often host art installations connecting the abbey's past with modern creativity. This spot is one of the best places to see in Arles for travelers who love history and architecture wrapped in poetic solitude.

How to Get There

Montmajour Abbey is located about 5 km north of Arles, accessible by car or taxi. From Arles railway station, it’s roughly a 10-minute drive along the D17 toward Fontvieille. For those driving, convenient parking is available at the site, though visitors exploring Arles first can use Parking du Centre or Parking des Lices before heading out to the abbey.

Practical Tips on Visiting Montmajour Abbey

  • Best time to visit Montmajour Abbey: Early morning or late afternoon for golden light and fewer visitors.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Around 6.50 EUR; discounts available for students and groups.
  • Opening hours: Typically 10:00–18:00 (April–September); reduced hours in winter.
  • Official website: www.abbaye-montmajour.fr
  • How long to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the site thoroughly.
  • Accessibility: Moderate; uneven terrain and stairs in historic sections.
  • Facilities: On-site parking, restrooms, and visitor information panels.
  • Photography tip: Capture the abbey at sunset when the limestone glows against the Provencal sky.
  • Guided tours: Available in summer through the Centre des monuments nationaux.
  • Nearby food options: Picnic areas on-site; cafés and restaurants in nearby Arles or Fontvieille.

Is Montmajour Abbey Worth Visiting?

Without question. Montmajour Abbey is one of the top sights in Arles, offering a profound combination of history, architecture, and atmosphere. Its sweeping views, spiritual stillness, and layered past make it one of the things to do in Arles that linger long after you've left. Whether you're an art lover tracing Van Gogh's footsteps or a traveler in search of Provence's soul, Montmajour offers a timeless encounter with beauty and faith.

Nearby Attractions to Montmajour Abbey

The Montmajour Abbey appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arles!

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Visiting Montmajour Abbey

Hours:

April 1 to May 31: 10h – 17h

June 1 to September 30: 10h – 18h15

October 1 to March 31: 10am – 5pm

Closed Mondays, January 1, May 1, November 11 and December 25.

Price:

€7

Address: Abbaye de Montmajour, Route de Fontvieille, Arles, France
Arles: 4 km
Official Website

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