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L’Abbaye de Fontenay  The Chapter House L’Abbaye de Fontenay, one of the oldest Cistercian monasteries in France, became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981. One can see why. Structurally so beautiful, the warm sandstone building needs no adornment. The architecture is strong and uncluttered. The stained glass is gentle in tones of aquamarine, soft blues and yellow geometrics. With light pouring through the windows and along the cloisters, you cannot fail but to be in awe.  Cloisters of L’Abbaye de Fontenay The Abbaye flourished between the 12th and 15th centuries, then during the French Revolution, it was turned into a paper mill by Elie de Montgolfier, a descendant of the inventors of the hot air balloon. In 1906, it was bought by Edouard Aynard and completely restored to its former glory. This family still maintain and preserve the site today. More recently, Fontenay was the backdrop for filming some of the scenes in the beautifully portrayed ‘Cyrano de Bergerac’ when Gérard Depardieu gave an award-winning performance.  Cistercian monastery in beautiful setting *Open daily thoughout the year For information 03 80 92 15 00 Places to visit nearby Places to stay
DVD of Cyrano de Bergerac (subtitled) available from www.amazon.co.uk |
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