Abbaye de Beaulieu

Abbaye de Beaulieu is a Cistercian monastery situated along the Amance River in the Haute-Marne area, marked by two prominent front towers and measuring roughly 35 meters in length. The structure displays gothic features with a neo-gothic chapel that holds stained glass windows from the 17th century.

The abbey was founded in 1166 by Manasses, dean of Langres Cathedral, and received papal confirmation from Pope Alexander III shortly after. This early recognition helped the monastery gain support from local nobility and establish its standing in the region.

The abbey's coat of arms, featuring a blue field with a crenelated castle, survives in the gallery of a neighboring abbey. It reflects the identity and status of this monastic community within the local religious network.

The abbey sits along the D 103 road and can currently be viewed only from the street as restoration work is ongoing at this privately owned site. Visitors should expect limited access and check ahead to see if any tours are available.

The chapel houses stained glass windows from the 17th century that were later modified during the 18th century. This layering of original craft with later alterations reveals how the building evolved across different periods.

Location: Haute-Amance

Inception: 1166

GPS coordinates: 47.82474,5.56958

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:41