Prieuré du Val Saint-Benoît, Medieval priory in Burgundy valley, France.
Prieuré du Val Saint-Benoît is a monastery nestled in dense forest near Épinac, featuring a plain church and a Gothic chapel called Les Loges. The site consists of connected buildings arranged around a quiet courtyard.
The monastery was founded in 1237 by Gautier de Sully following a vow to the Virgin Mary. It operated for over 400 years before its closure in 1705.
The Bethlehem community has brought spiritual purpose back to this place since 1982 through daily prayer and contemplation. Visitors can sense this ongoing religious rhythm throughout the grounds.
The monastery is about ten kilometers south of Autun and reachable only by forest paths that require moderate walking. Visits are only possible with prior booking for guided tours.
The site contains fifteen modern hermitages built alongside the historic structures, creating two distinct periods within one setting. These newer dwellings show how the place has been renewed while keeping its past.
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