Abbaye de Beaulieu-en-Rouergue
Monument
Founded in 1144 in the charming valley of La Seye by Adhémar III, bishop of Rodez, the Cistercian abbey of Beaulieu was quite propserous for several centuries, although there were troubles during the Crusade against the Albigenses in the 13th century, the Hundred Years’ War in the 14th century and the Wars of Religion in the 16th century.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the abbey was embellished, but there was a decline due to lack of discipline and respect for the rules of monastic life.
During the French Revolution, the abbey was sold as a national property and partly demolished. In the 19th century, it was turned into a farm.
In 1960, some art lovers bought it with the help of the State, and Caisse nationale des monuments et des sites began major restoration in 1973.
The 13th century abbey church is a very good example of the purest Gothic style (single nave, octagonal cupola, high bays, rose windows). The palmtree-like pillars in the chapter house are decorated with polychrome geometrical patterns. It is interesting to compare the structure of this room to that of the old cellar, which is lighter.
Made higher in the 17th century, the abbey buildings give onto the park. With the chapel of the laymen on the banks of the La Seye river, the abbey buildings provide a good illustration of the Cistercian spirit and its harmony with nature.
Since 1973, the abbey of Beaulieu has been a contemporary art centre with a respected collection.
Lodging
See the listing of the Hotels in Montauban
Practical information
Abbaye de Beaulieu-en-Rouergue
82330 Ginals
Going there
From Cahors or Montauban: main road N 20 to Caussade, secondary road D 926 towards Villefranche-de-Rouergue to Parisot, then secondary road D 33 to the abbey
From Rodez: exit n° 2, main road N 88 to Baraqueville, secondary road D 911 to Villefranche-de-Rouergue, secondary road D 926 to Parisot and secondary road D 33 to the abbey
39 km from the Limoges/Toulouse road
63 km northwest of Montauban
Opening / Closing
Open
1 April to 1 November, every day except Tuesday : 10-12 and 2-6 pm
1 July to 31 August : every day, 10-12 and 2 – 6 pm
Closed
from 2 November to 31 March
1 May