Benedictine Abbey of Ambronay

Ambronay Abbey was founded in the early 9th century by St Bernard de Romans and was home to a community of Benedictine monks until the French Revolution. The abbey is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with some of its buildings dating between the 11th and 15th centuries. Today the abbey is a centre for early classical and religious music and is well known for its annual baroque music festival which takes place during September and October.

During the early Middle Ages, Ambronay Abbey was self-governing, answering only to Rome. From 1282 onwards, it fell under the protection of the Dukes of Savoy. The abbey became involved in the border disputes between the Dukes and the King of France. This resulted in the abbey being heavily fortified. Today one can discover the Dauphine Tower, the Archives Tower, Saint Jacques and Saint Catherine’s Chapel and the cloister which houses a magnificent renaissance staircase. One can also see the chapter room and the sacristy which were central to monastic life.

The abbey is home to the Ambronay Cultural Centre which promotes religious and baroque music, with several concerts taking place throughout the year.