Abbaye de Bonlieu, Medieval Cistercian abbey in Peyrat-la-Nonière, France.
The Abbaye de Bonlieu is a Cistercian monastery in Peyrat-la-Nonière, France, featuring a rectangular defensive tower built in 1421 and a square stair turret with a spiral staircase at its center. The complex preserves several medieval structures that reflect the architectural style of this religious community.
The monastery was founded in 1117 when Amelius de Chambon donated the Mazerolles land to Géraud de Salles, and was formally consecrated as Bonus Locus in 1141. Over time it became a significant Cistercian house in the Limousin region.
The monastery displays medieval mural paintings with consecration crosses near the central window, reflecting religious art from different construction periods. These works show how monks expressed their faith through decoration across the centuries.
The monastery is privately owned and requires advance planning to visit, with specific access arrangements necessary to explore the historical structures. Contact ahead of time to arrange a viewing with the owners.
The monastery complex features a medieval bridge with two broken-arch spans supported by triangular buttresses, demonstrating advanced engineering of the period. This structure is a rare example of the practical building skill of medieval craftsmen.
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