Abbaye Saint-Serge

Abbaye Saint-Serge is a Benedictine abbey in Angers built from stone with medieval walls and carved details preserved throughout the structure. The site functions today as both a parish church and part of a secondary school campus, showing how its spaces have adapted to new purposes.

The abbey was founded in the 7th century and first documented in 705 through a royal diploma from Childebert IV. Major reconstruction work took place in 1059, creating much of what visitors see today.

The abbey is dedicated to Saints Sergius and Bacchus, an unusual choice for a religious building in Western Europe. This patronage is reflected in how the site has been used and remembered by the local community over the centuries.

Some sections of the complex are part of a school campus, so access to certain areas may be limited or restricted. It is best to check in advance which parts are open to visitors before planning your visit.

In 1166, a ceremony to translate the remains of Saint Brieuc took place here, and King Henry II of England attended the proceedings. This shows the site held enough importance to attract major figures and significant events.