Abbaye des Dames

Abbaye des Dames is a former Benedictine monastery in Tusson with surviving medieval structures. The most notable remains are a fortified tower with cross-shaped arrow slits connected to a pillar from the original church.

The monastery was founded in 1115 by Robert d'Arbrissel as a religious community. It later became affiliated with the Abbey of Fontevraud, which shaped its spiritual direction and connections to a larger monastic network.

The layout of the buildings shows how the religious community organized their daily life around prayer and work. You can sense the rhythm of monastic living when walking through the spaces.

The site is freely accessible during the day and requires no entrance fee. Be sure to respect private areas on the grounds and wear appropriate footwear since the terrain can be uneven.

In the 16th century, Margaret of Navarre, a learned queen, used this priory for writing and spiritual renewal. Her visits connected this religious site with the intellectual life of the royal court.