Chartreuse de Saint-Hugon, Carthusian monastery in Arvillard, France
The Chartreuse de Saint-Hugon is a Carthusian monastery located in a valley of the French Alps surrounded by forest. The complex includes residential buildings, a chapel, and support structures arranged according to Carthusian community design.
The Carthusian order established this community in 1183 with monks sent from Grande Chartreuse monastery. The site faced major disruption during the French Revolution when the government suppressed religious institutions throughout France.
The monastery is named after Saint Hugo and its layout reflects Carthusian principles with individual cells designed for solitary prayer and reflection. Visitors can still observe how these spaces allowed monks to balance isolation with shared community life.
The site now operates as a Buddhist meditation center and requires advance notice before visiting. Planning ahead by contacting the center is essential to ensure access and to learn about any specific visiting guidelines.
During World War II the Red Cross used sections of the monastery as a hospital while monks continued their regular activities. This dual use of the buildings shows how the place adapted during times of crisis.
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