Abbaye Notre-Dame-de-la-Joie, Hennebont, Cistercian abbey in Hennebont, France
Abbaye Notre-Dame-de-la-Joie is a monastic complex in Hennebont with two L-shaped buildings whose facades, roofs, and interior staircases are registered as protected monuments. The site also includes stables and a separate house that once served the clergy attached to the community.
The abbey was founded in 1275 by Blanche of Champagne and served as a significant religious center for centuries. A major fire in 1512 destroyed the original buildings, which were reconstructed in 1693 with a new design.
The site housed a religious community of women whose daily rhythm revolved around prayer, craft work, and teaching young girls in the surrounding region. This monastic life shaped the character of the place for more than 500 years.
The buildings now function as part of the National Stud Farm, with the ground floors adapted for horse care and housing. Visitors should keep in mind that this is an active working site where access may be restricted to certain areas.
The former confessors' house was classified as a historical monument in 1921 and has since been transformed into a space for artist residencies. This conversion shows how the site honors its monastic heritage while serving contemporary creative practice.
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