Enhance Your Visit
Roots of Serenity
Discover Montmajour Abbey's captivating blend of architectural styles, each telling a unique tale of its past. Situated in Arles, this abbey traces its origins back to 948, when Benedictine monks established it. The journey began with a simple stone church, showcasing the early ‘Carolingian’ style, which you can explore in the Saint Pierre Hermitage.
Evolving Through Time
Witness the evolution of Montmajour Abbey through various reconstructions over the centuries. The crypt, church structures, and cloisters, crafted two hundred years later, exhibit exquisite Provençal Romanesque architecture. Don't miss the intricately detailed cloisters, adorned with iconic Bas-relief statues depicting historical figures and a plethora of animal motifs, from dromedaries to billy goats and the mythical Tarasque.
Between the 14th and 16th centuries, Gothic and Neoclassical influences left their mark on the abbey. As you explore the abbey church and Notre Dame la Blanche chapel, observe the fusion of pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and Gothic capitals with Romanesque elements, unveiling the abbey's diverse construction phases.
Awe-Inspiring Views
Marvel at the defensive tower that stands as a testament to Montmajour's historical significance and military strength. The intricate details of bossage walls, crenels, merlons, machicolations, and arrow slits provide a glimpse into medieval fortification techniques. Lastly, savor breathtaking vistas of the Provençal landscape from the elevated vantage point of Montmajour Hill.
