The
Abbey is the site of a Cistercian community of women founded in 1127 A.D.
The Cistercians were an order of monks and nuns dedicated to St. Benedict.
Situated on 75 acres of parkland with a natural pond, the buildings have been
lovingly restored over the past 27 years by the landlord, a devoted historian.)
Hoping to gain redemption for having turned away his daughters, Roger de Mowbray,
a powerful Anglo-Norman landlord, founded in " Villers le Quennyvet"
a women's priory in 1127. The nunnery was elevated to the rank of Royal Abbey
during the XVIIth century and gradually fell into ruin until it was reconstructed
Placed
in an outstanding location by a pond, Royal Woods, and a Roman Way, the Abbey
has maintained an exceptional rural character typical of Cistercian communities
with several buildings contained within long enclosure walls : the gate house
- remains of the cloister - the tithe barn - living quarters of the monks
- vaulted galleries... The most remarkable building is the entrance to the
Abbey. Today this beautiful structure (XIIIth century) with its pedestrian
and carriage passages is the only remaining example of a medieval portal of
all the Cistercian Abbeys in France !
The atmosphere and charm of the Abbey will make lasting impressions on our
visitors.
Hours of Operation and How to Contact Us
Individuals
May, June and September : guided tours everyday from 2 p.m to 6 p.m except
on Monday and Tuesday.
July and August : guided tours everyday from 2 p.m to 6 p.m except on Tuesday.
Adults : 4 euros - Children: 2,50 euros - free for children under 6.
Group tariffs (for 2003)
Guided tour and slide show - (1 h 15) : 3,70 €
Snack (without guided tour) : 7 €
Snack with guided tour and slide show : 8 €
Group tariffs apply to groups
of at least 15 people
Coach : free entrance for the driver - Free entrance for the escort of groups
of more than 25 people
Open all year-round by reservation from 9 a.m to 6 p.m
To contact us
Phone : 00 33 (0)2 31 90 81 80 - Fax : 00 33 (0)2 31 90 65 41
Email : abv.canivet@wanadoo.fr
| Postal address: | Abbaye aux Dames 14420 Villers-Canivet France |
 |
Six kilometers from Falaise, next to Suisse Normande
and the “Pays d'Auge”, Map of Villers-Canivet in Normandy |
