Abbey of Notre-Dame du Bec
About Abbey of Notre-Dame du Bec
The Abbey of Notre-Dame du Bec is one of France's most historically significant Benedictine monasteries, founded in 1034 by Herluin, a knight who renounced warfare to pursue monastic life. During the 11th and 12th centuries, the abbey became one of the principal intellectual centers of Western Christianity, home to the renowned School of Bec that attracted scholars from across Europe. Remarkably, three of its abbots became Archbishops of Canterbury, including Saint Anselm, a Doctor of the Church. Visitors can explore the magnificent 17th-century Italian-inspired cloister, the 12th-century chapter house, and the imposing Tour Saint-Nicolas with its eight corner statues. The monks operate a traditional pottery workshop producing handmade ceramics in the Rouen faience style. The abbey remains an active monastery with Olivetan Benedictine monks, so guided tours are scheduled around prayer times. The surrounding village of Le Bec-Hellouin is classified among France's Most Beautiful Villages, making this an ideal destination combining spiritual heritage with Norman countryside charm.
Interesting Facts
The name "Bec" comes from the Old Norse word "bekkr" meaning stream, reflecting the abbey's Viking heritage in Normandy. When founder Herluin first settled here around 1034, he chose this spot where a small stream flows, building his hermitage beside the water. This Norse linguistic legacy reminds visitors that Normandy was settled by Vikings just over a century before the abbey's founding.
During the French Revolution, the abbey narrowly escaped complete destruction thanks to an unlikely savior: Napoleon Bonaparte. After the monks were expelled in 1792 and the buildings were at risk of being demolished, Napoleon converted the abbey into a national stud farm (haras) in 1802. While this repurposed the sacred buildings for horse breeding, it preserved the architecture that we can still admire today.
The Tour Saint-Nicolas features an unusual architectural detail: eight monumental statues at its corners representing saints including Mary, Benedict, Nicholas, John, Michael, James, Louis, and Andrew. Built in 1450 by Abbot Geoffroy d'Epaignes during the Hundred Years' War, these protective saints were placed to guard the abbey spiritually during turbulent times. The tower remains the most iconic structure visible from the village below.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Guided Tour of Monument Buildings
Recommended45-60 minute guided tour of the cloister, chapter house, Tour Saint-Nicolas, and conventual buildings. Tours depart from the shop reception. No reservations - first come, first served. Available April-September: weekdays 10:30, 15:00, 16:00; Sundays 12:00, 15:00, 16:00. October-March: weekdays 10:30, 15:30; weekends 10:30, 15:00, 16:00. Closed Tuesdays and during religious services.
Location & Practical Info
Address
3 Place de l'Abbé Herluin, 27800 Le Bec-Hellouin, France
Website
https://abbayedubec.org/Day Routes
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