Charlieu Abbey, Benedictine abbey in Charlieu, France.
Charlieu Abbey is a Benedictine monastery in France built from yellow stone with Romanesque elements throughout its structure. The northern and western entrances feature detailed carved decorations that showcase the craftsmanship of the medieval period.
The monastery was founded in 872 and quickly became an important religious center in the region. It later received relics of Saint Stephen, which greatly increased its status and importance.
The main entrance displays carved biblical scenes including the Wedding at Cana and visions of the Apocalypse. These stone carvings once served as a visual story for those who could not read.
The site includes a medicinal garden with information boards that explain the plants grown there. Walking through the garden helps visitors understand which herbs and plants were used in monastic times.
An exact replica of the monastery's 12th-century entrance stands in the Architecture and Heritage Center in Paris. This copy shows how significant the original building was for French architectural history.
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