Saint-Georges Abbey (Abbaye Saint-Georges de Boscherville)
About Saint-Georges Abbey (Abbaye Saint-Georges de Boscherville)
Saint-Georges Abbey is one of the finest examples of Norman Romanesque architecture in France, founded by Guillaume I de Tancarville in 1112-1114 on a site with origins dating back to the 1st century CE. The abbey church, built between 1113-1140 from local Caumont stone, displays remarkable architectural unity with its pure Romanesque style preserved almost entirely from the 12th century. Visitors can explore the magnificent Gothic chapter house featuring biblical and secular scenes on its sculpted capitals, along with 4 hectares of award-winning gardens classified as 'Jardin Remarquable' including heritage orchards, kitchen gardens, and panoramic terraces overlooking the Seine Valley. The abbey church itself is free to enter and showcases exceptional sculpted capitals and elegant proportions that exemplify the best of Norman Romanesque design. Note that the site has seasonal hours: continuous 9:30-18:30 from April to October, with reduced hours and a midday break from November to March, and complete closure from December to February except for groups by arrangement.
Interesting Facts
The site has been sacred for nearly 2,000 years - before the abbey, a Roman fanum (temple) stood here in the 2nd century CE, which itself replaced an even older wooden temple from the 1st century. Archaeological excavations have revealed traces of these ancient structures beneath the medieval foundations.
The chapter house walls are an impressive 1.80 meters thick - this massive Gothic hall, measuring 16.73m by 7.60m with 12-meter high vaulted ceilings, contains the tomb of Abbot Victor who oversaw its construction between 1157-1211 and chose to be buried in his greatest architectural achievement.
During World War II, German forces used the abbey gardens as a military camp. Remarkably, the historic buildings survived the war largely intact, though the gardens required extensive restoration afterward to return them to their former glory as heritage orchards and botanical displays.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Full Visit (Gardens, Chapter House & Museum)
RecommendedLocation & Practical Info
Address
12 Route de l'Abbaye, 76840 Saint-Martin-de-Boscherville, France
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