Abbaye Notre-Dame de La Couronne

Abbaye Notre-Dame de La Couronne is a Gothic abbey in La Couronne featuring a preserved cloister gallery, chapter house, and refectory from the 13th century. The structures display the typical layout of a medieval monastery with residential areas, work spaces, and religious chambers organized around a central court.

The monastery was founded in 1118 by chaplain Lambert and officially established in 1122 when it received members of the Augustinian Order. This early foundation made it an important religious center in the region throughout the medieval period.

The abbey represents a key phase in architectural development across western France, showing how Gothic design merged with the practical needs of monastic life. The layout of cloister, converses area, and infirmary reflects the daily rhythm and routines that monks followed within these spaces.

The site is shared between a cement company and the Charente Department, with different areas under different management. Visitors should expect varied access and conditions when exploring different sections of the abbey grounds.

The countess Isabelle of Angouleme was initially buried at this abbey before her remains were later moved to Fontevraud Abbey by her son, King Henry III of England. This royal connection reveals the significance the site held in aristocratic circles of the 13th century.