The Fleury abbey

Fleury Abbey in Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire, founded around 650, has housed since 672 the relics of Saint Benedict of Nursia, founder of Western monasticism and patron saint of Europe. The presence of the saint's relics favored the development of a pilgrimage and thus the importance of the abbey. It was a center of culture and education with an important scriptorium.

A remarkable example of Romanesque art in the Loire Valley, the abbey church of Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire is mainly known for its imposing porch tower. Numerous historic capitals, also present in the nave and choir of the church, as well as a crypt in which rest the relics of Saint Benedict and a sculpted portal can be admired all year round.

A community of Benedictine monks lives in the adjacent monastery.

Free visit: from April to October, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., from November to March from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., except during services and ceremonies.

Masses in Gregorian chants at 12 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. on Sundays and public holidays.

Guided tours for individuals (from 5 people), from March 1 to October 31: Saturdays at 2:45 p.m., Sundays and parties at 3:15 p.m.

Guided tours for groups: contact the monastery: basilique@abbaye-fleury.com or by telephone: +33 2 38 35 72 43.