Abbey of Notre Dame aux Nonnains

The Abbey of Notre Dame aux Nonnains is a former convent in Troyes featuring stone buildings from different periods. The complex displays a large courtyard with two stone lion sculptures and an imposing entrance gate with ornate wrought iron work.

The convent was founded in the 7th century and underwent major reconstruction in the 12th century following a devastating fire. The structures were later adapted and served for centuries as an administrative center.

The name refers to the nuns who managed and shaped this place over many centuries. The spaces reflect this female leadership, which was unusual in the medieval church.

The buildings now serve as the administrative headquarters of the Prefecture of Aube and can be visited in their public areas. A walk through the courtyard gives a good sense of the original layout.

Excavations beneath an adjacent plaza uncovered a church dating to around 1000 along with a cemetery lying below it. These discoveries reveal the site held religious importance long before the medieval structures were built.