Pierre le Vif

Pierre le Vif was a Benedictine monastery located outside the city walls of Sens, consisting of several buildings including a large church and abbot's residence. The complex spread across enough land to support the monastic community and their daily activities.

The monastery was founded in the 6th century by Theodechild, a Merovingian princess and daughter of King Theuderic I. It remained an important monastic center for centuries until the French Revolution led to its destruction in 1791.

The monastery served as a center for religious learning and shaped spiritual life in the region for centuries. Monks and scholars from here influenced thought throughout the surrounding area.

The site where the monastery once stood is now empty and has no standing structures to visit. Information about its history can be found in local museums and documents in the city of Sens.

In 1239, the Crown of Thorns passed through the monastery for one night while being transferred from Constantinople to Paris. This rare event briefly made the site a focal point of religious attention across Europe.