Valloires Abbey, Cistercian monastery in Argoules, France

Valloires Abbey is a Cistercian monastery in Argoules, rebuilt in the 18th century. Its church, consecrated in 1756, has a plain neo-classical facade with a triangular pediment and two sculpted angel heads above the portal, while the interior holds rocaille decoration by Simon Pfaff de Pfaffenhoffen and ironwork by Jean-Baptiste Veyren. The abbey buildings are among the best preserved in the region.

The abbey was founded in 1138 by Count Guy II of Ponthieu and quickly developed into an important religious center. During the 12th and 13th centuries, it reached its peak with around one hundred monks living there.

The monastery holds notable artistic works, including decorative elements created by Austrian artist Simon Pfaffenhoffen and metalwork by Jean Baptiste Veyren. These treasures shape the interior spaces and reflect the craftsmanship of earlier times.

The grounds are open only to visitors through guided tours lasting about one hour, offering insight into the historical rooms. Since the facility currently functions as a children's welfare institution, visitors should be respectful and avoid disturbing the ongoing operations.

The wrought-iron choir screen inside the church, black metal with gold-painted scrollwork and finials, was made by Jean-Baptiste Veyren, known as "Vivarais". A winged figure hangs suspended from the ceiling above it. The abbey also keeps an organ of international reputation, built by the Basilian brothers who settled here in 1817 and made organs until 1860.