Priory of Plessis-Grimoult

The Priory of Plessis-Grimoult is an Augustinian religious complex in Les Monts d'Aunay featuring surviving stone columns with carved capitals from the 13th century and a gate structure near the archaeological remains. The ruins display the typical layout of a monastic community with architectural elements that reflect daily religious life.

Richard Samson founded this monastic community in 1120 as a home for canons regular serving the church of Saint Stephen. The establishment grew over centuries and was led by successive priors until the French Revolution brought significant changes to religious life.

The name refers to a ravine in the landscape where the religious community once lived. Visitors can sense this monastic past through the remaining stonework and the quiet setting that still holds traces of communal life.

The site sits in rolling terrain in Normandy and is best explored on foot since the ruins are spread across the landscape. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be aware of uneven ground and overgrown areas that may require careful footing.

Among the many priors who led this establishment was Jacques-Benigne Bossuet, a prominent religious thinker appointed by King Louis XIV. His connection to this priory is less known today than his major theological writings and influence at court.