Prieuré Saint-Jean-du-Grais

Prieuré Saint-Jean-du-Grais is a Benedictine priory in Azay-sur-Cher featuring 15th-century monastic buildings that include a chapter house, dormitory, refectory, and prior's residence. The complex preserves its original layout and demonstrates a typical medieval monastic arrangement.

The priory was founded in 1127, with Hugh de Payns, founder of the Knights Templar, and Foulques V, Count of Anjou, involved in its establishment. During the French Revolution, the church was destroyed, leaving only the octagonal bell tower standing with its thick walls intact.

Since 2004, contemporary stained glass windows by artist Sarkis bring modern light into the medieval spaces. This artistic addition creates a visible dialogue between the old structure and present-day creativity that visitors encounter while walking through the priory.

The priory is not open to regular visitors, but guided tours can be arranged by contacting the Darrasse family in advance. It is best to plan ahead and clarify visit conditions before traveling to the location.

The octagonal bell tower with its approximately two-meter-thick walls is the sole survivor of the original church structure. This solitary structure tells of the destructive force of revolution and the durability of this medieval engineering.