Prieuré Saint-Léonard de l’Île-Bouchard

The Saint-Leonard Priory stands on the left bank of the Vienne River, featuring a choir, main apse, three apsidioles, and an ambulatory with five arcaded columns.

Originally constructed in the early 12th century as a dependency of Notre-Dame de Déols Abbey, the priory was pillaged in 1562 and sold as national property in 1791.

The priory's capitals, dated between 1130 and 1140, display intricate carvings depicting scenes from the life of Jesus and Mary across multiple stone faces.

Located on Rue de la Vallée aux Nains in L'Île-Bouchard, the priory site remains open to visitors and received a complete restoration in 1997.

Archaeological excavations near the church revealed 33 burial sites, including stone coffins and earthen graves, some containing traditional charcoal bed preservation methods.

Location: L'Île-Bouchard

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Address: rue de la Vallée-aux-Nains

GPS coordinates: 47.11442,0.42104

Latest update: June 23, 2025 10:01