Loc-Dieu Abbey

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Loc-Dieu Abbey, Romanesque abbey in Martiel, France

The stone church of Loc-Dieu Abbey displays Gothic vaults resting upon Romanesque foundations, with a Latin cross layout and a five-sided apse.

Founded in 1123 in a place formerly named Locus Diaboli, the abbey suffered destruction by English forces in 1409 before its reconstruction in 1470.

The abbey follows Cistercian architectural principles with minimal decorative elements, focusing on the interplay between stone structures and natural light.

Located 9 kilometers west of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, the abbey stands within a 40-hectare park containing numerous tree species and walking paths.

During summer 1940, the abbey served as a secret shelter for precious artworks from the Louvre Museum, including the Mona Lisa painting.

Location: Martiel

Inception: 1123

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture, Gothic Revival

Website: http://abbayedelocdieu.com

GPS coordinates: 44.33956,1.93094

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:45

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