Imagine a monastery that once played an important role in the medieval history of France, now only a ruin. This is the story of Abbaye de Vauclair (or: Vauclair Abbey), a former Cistercian monastery located in the Champagne-Ardenne region, just south of the city of Laon and north of Reims. In this article, we delve deeper into the history of Abbaye de Vauclair, why it became a ruin, and why it is still worth a visit.
Why not every Church is a Cathedral (and more)
What’s the difference between a cathedral and a church? This and more in this series of Question & Answers.
History of Abbaye de Vauclair
The Cistercian monastery Abbaye de Vauclair was founded in 1134 by Bernard of Clairvaux. He was an important figure in the history of Christianity. Bernard named the monastery ‘Vauclair’ (vallis clara, which is Latin for: ‘clear valley’), reversing the name of the mother abbey (clara vallis).
The monastery was built on a site already occupied by a church, in a strategic location at the edge of a large forest and at the foot of a hill. It was surrounded by farmland and vineyards, making the monastery an important economic player in the region during the Middle Ages.
Early Gothic Architecture
The architecture of Abbaye de Vauclair was also of great importance. The monastery was an early example of Gothic style in France. Gothic architecture was a revolution in medieval architecture because of its characteristic vaulted arches, pointed arches, and ribs, which allowed for greater height and light in the buildings. Abbaye de Vauclair was one of the first monasteries in France to use this style, setting an important example for other Gothic buildings.
In the centuries that followed, Abbaye de Vauclair grew into an influential monastery. It became a center for religious study and for housing manuscripts and artworks. Moreover, the monastery played an important role in the development of the local economy, particularly in wine and wool production.
The decline of Abbaye Vauclair
Unfortunately, the heyday of Abbaye de Vauclair came to an end. In the 16th century, the monastery was looted and destroyed by soldiers during the Hundred Years’ War and Huguenot Wars. However, it was not until the 18th century that the monastery was definitively abandoned. At last, what was left of the buildings was almost totally destroyed in 1917 by direct artillery bombardment.
What can still be seen at the site?
Since then, the ruins of Abbaye de Vauclair have fallen into disrepair, and many of the buildings have disappeared. The only thing that remains standing are parts of the church, the cloister, and a few other buildings. Near to the ruins, a garden of medicinal plants was recreated near to the presumed site of the old infirmary. The herb garden has a grid layout following the plan of the first monastic gardens, and contains over 400 species of medicinal plants.
Why is Abbaye de Vauclair still worth a visit?
Despite the fact that Abbaye de Vauclair is now only a ruin, it remains an important historical monument that embodies an important part of the medieval history of France. It is a place where visitors can get a unique glimpse into the architecture and art of the Gothic style and the role that monasteries played in medieval society. Moreover, it is a peaceful and beautiful place that offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
LUX Travel Tips
- Not sure about the difference between a ‘monastery’ and an ‘abbey’? We help you out!
- Abbaye de Vauclair is a 30 min. drive from Laon and a 40 min. drive from Reims. We stayed both in Laon and in Reims.
- In Laon, there is this authentique French hotel, Hotel de La Banniere de France. No fancy modern rooms, but warm and cosy and a great host. Located just a 5 minute walk from the cathedral and 5 minutes to St. Martin’s abbey church.
- In Reims, we found Hotel Crystal, just a 10 min. walk from the cathedral.
- We had an excellent dinner at ‘Le Passage au Verre’, just 1 minute walk from the Laon cathedral. It’s a charming establishment that offers a delightful dining experience.
