Prieuré de Villesalem

Prieuré de Villesalem is a Romanesque monastery with a church built in a Latin cross shape and featuring a three-vessel nave. The northern entrance displays sculpted stone decorations that give the building its distinctive appearance.

This monastery was founded in the 12th century as part of the Fontevraud Order network. In 1369, English soldiers led by John Chandos attacked and damaged the complex.

The north portal displays carved stone figures of humans and animals meant to represent royal power in a medieval style. These reliefs show how craftspeople of that time expressed ideas of authority and dignity through their work.

Visitors can explore the church building and remaining monastery structures throughout the year. Allow time to examine the architectural details and stone carvings carefully.

This site is one of the few surviving monasteries of the Fontevraud Order and retains architectural features from the 12th century. What makes it noteworthy is how the original Poitevin Romanesque style remains visible despite historical damage from warfare.