Prieuré Saint-Thomas d'Épernon, priory located in Eure-et-Loir, in France
The priory Saint-Thomas d'Épernon is a small monastic building in the town of Épernon, featuring simple stonework and small windows that allow soft light into its interior. A modest bell tower and surrounding garden create a cohesive setting designed for quiet contemplation.
The priory was founded in the 11th century under the authority of Marmoutier Abbey near Tours. After the French Revolution it was sold and used by industrialists until 1936, when a religious community took over its care and continues to maintain it today.
The priory served medieval pilgrims traveling between Chartres and Santiago de Compostela, offering shelter and spiritual guidance. Today, a religious community continues this welcoming tradition, maintaining the site as a place where visitors find quiet reflection and connection to the region's faith heritage.
The site is easily located in town and offers a quiet retreat away from busy streets, with accessible grounds for walking. The surrounding park provides pleasant spaces for visitors to rest and explore at a leisurely pace.
The priory was a key stop for pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela, where monks provided shelter and supplies to travelers passing through the region. This connection to one of Europe's major pilgrimage routes remains central to understanding its historical importance.
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