Notre-Dame de l'Ouÿe abbey

Notre-Dame de l'Ouÿe abbey sits within a wooded area and preserves a church, cloister, and sixteenth-century dovecote. The buildings form a connected complex that displays the typical arrangement of a medieval monastic settlement.

The abbey was founded in 1163 by Grandmontain monks at the request of King Louis VII and received royal privileges and papal confirmations. This early support ensured the monastery's influence and prosperity across several centuries.

The abbey serves as a reception center for the Diocese of Paris, hosting concerts and special events during European Heritage Days. Visitors can explore the spaces and experience the legacy of monastic life preserved within its structures.

The property operates as a private venue for youth gatherings and spiritual retreats, with accommodation facilities available through the Diocese of Paris. Visitors should check in advance, as access is available during special occasions and European Heritage Days events.

According to local tradition, the abbey's name comes from a lost prince whose voice was heard by his companions in the forest, leading to its establishment. This story connects the place to a legend that remains part of the region's memory.