Abbaye de Léoncel

Abbaye de Léoncel is a Cistercian monastery nestled at 900 meters altitude in the Vercors valley. The church features rounded archways and thick pillars that support vaulted spaces below.

The monastery was founded in 1137 by twelve Cistercian monks and flourished during the 13th century. This mountain community grew to include both choir monks and lay brothers working together in its remote location.

The abbey serves as a spiritual landmark where visitors can experience the rhythm of monastic prayer and the harmony of its medieval architecture. The simple Cistercian design reflects values of restraint and devotion that shaped the community living here.

The monastery church is accessible daily and offers visitors a quiet space to spend time in contemplation. You can experience the rhythm of monastic life through prayers and singing at different times throughout the day.

The monastery sits at 900 meters high in a remote mountain valley, which allowed the Cistercians to live in isolation from the outside world. This remote setting has helped the community maintain its spiritual mission across nearly ten centuries.

Location: Léoncel

Inception: 1137

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 44.91139,5.19361

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:07