Abbaye de Bohéries, Cistercian abbey in Vadencourt, France.
Abbaye de Bohéries is a former Cistercian monastery in Vadencourt featuring 18th century buildings including a farmhouse with two symmetrical wings and an octagonal dovecote. The compound is laid out with orderly structures and water management features that supported monastic life.
The monastery was founded in 1143 by monks from Foigny Abbey and grew into an established religious community. It suffered significant damage from Spanish troops between 1636 and 1652 during regional conflicts.
The site preserves typical Cistercian design features including drainage systems and a pond within the enclosure, which reflect how monks organized their daily life. These visible elements help visitors understand the community's approach to practical living and land management.
The site holds status as a classified historical monument and welcomes visitors during warmer months with group tours available. Those planning a visit should check conditions and access arrangements in advance.
After the French Revolution, a room within the complex was converted into a weaving workshop, showing how the buildings were repurposed when monastic life ended. This industrial use left marks on the space and demonstrates how the site adapted to new times.
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