Bonneval Abbey
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Bonneval Abbey, nestled in the green countryside of Aveyron, stands as a witness to nearly nine centuries of monastic history. Founded in 1147 by Cistercian monks from Mazan Abbey in Ardèche, it is part of the great expansion movement of the Cistercian order.
Bonneval Abbey offers monastic hospitality conducive to spiritual retreat, joyfully welcoming those who wish to withdraw for a few days for a time of solitude and reflection.
Retreats organized by the community
Nine centuries of monastic life at Bonneval Abbey
Bonneval or Bona Val (in Occitan) is a magnificent valley in the South of France, in Aveyron. It is there, at the heart of this valley, that for nearly nine centuries, the Cistercian abbey of Bonneval has stood on the foothills of Aubrac.
From its foundation, Bonneval Abbey prospered thanks to the principles of the Cistercian order: prayer, work and community life. It benefited from donations from local lords, which favored its agricultural and spiritual development. Like many Cistercian abbeys, Bonneval was established in an isolated location, conducive to contemplation and contemplative life.
However, the abbey went through periods of crisis during the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453). The Wars of Religion in the 16th century weakened the community and disrupted monastic life. During the French Revolution in 1791, the abbey's properties were confiscated and the monks were expelled. Bonneval then fell into ruins, leaving its spiritual heritage in limbo.
It was in 1875 that Bonneval regained its religious vocation thanks to the establishment of a community of Trappistine nuns. Coming from Maubec Abbey in Isère, they undertook the restoration of the buildings and resumed monastic life according to the Rule of Saint Benedict, based on prayer, silence and manual labor.
To support themselves, the sisters engaged in agriculture, then in the artisanal production of chocolate from 1878, an activity that would become emblematic of the monastery.
The nuns of Bonneval Abbey
Notre-Dame de Bonneval Abbey is a monastery of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, whose members are sometimes called Trappists or Trappistines. The nuns of Bonneval follow the Rule of Saint Benedict, dedicated to prayer, work and community life. The current community has about 25 sisters.
Bonneval Abbey remains a place of contemplation and serenity, welcoming those seeking a moment of peace and reflection. While the monastic community has evolved, its commitment to prayer and work remains intact. They ensure their subsistence notably through the artisanal production of chocolate, an activity initiated from the abbey's restoration. This artisanal chocolate shop perpetuates the sisters' know-how and helps the abbey's influence spread well beyond the borders of Aveyron.
Even today, Bonneval Abbey continues to embody the Cistercian ideal: a balance between spiritual life, manual labor and communion with nature.
What to expect during your stay
A spiritual retreat in the heart of Aveyron
The community offers monastic hospitality, providing visitors with a setting conducive to spiritual retreat and meditation. The surrounding natural environment, wild and preserved, invites isolation and contemplation.
- Anyone, men or women, can be welcomed at the guest house.
- For groups of young people, the Saint Joseph Hermitage, located 1 mile from the monastery, offers suitable accommodation, promoting a group retreat experience while benefiting from the tranquility of the place.
- Pilgrims on the way to Santiago de Compostela can find shelter at the Saint James Tower, where hospitallers take turns during the summer to welcome them.
- Guests also have the opportunity, if they wish, to participate in the liturgical offices with the community, thus enriching their spiritual journey.
In addition to attending the offices, guests can go and meditate in the chapel. They also have the opportunity to browse in a library available to guests.
You can also go taste and sample the delicious chocolates from Bonneval Abbey by visiting the shop! You won't be disappointed!
Geography and activities
Exploring the treasures around Bonneval Abbey
The abbey offers numerous walks in the surrounding area: it must be said that the setting, located in the heart of Aveyron, is perfect for hiking!
You can take a trip to the Saint Joseph hermitage to admire the famous "Good Valley" by passing through the beech and oak forest. For the more energetic, you can also climb up to the Virgin of Bonneval to admire the Aubrac and a splendid view of the abbey and its surroundings!
If you have a vehicle, other places are accessible from Bonneval:
- The Galinières castle, a former fortified barn dating from 1371.
- The village of Espalion, 9 miles from the abbey, is a charming village where you will find a museum as well as a bridge listed as UNESCO World Heritage.
- The village of Conques, 31 miles from the abbey, is famous for its Sainte-Foy Abbey and its contemporary stained glass windows. This major stop on the Way of St. James is also one of the most beautiful villages in France!
Practical information
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