Abbaye de Montmajour (Montmajour Abbey), Arles (must see)

The Abbaye de Montmajour is a remarkable fortified Benedictine monastery located just five kilometers north of Arles in the Bouches-du-Rhône Department of Provence. Constructed over several centuries from the 10th to the 18th century, the abbey stands on what was once an island, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

One of the notable features of Montmajour Abbey is its collection of graves carved into the rock, which date back to the 11th to 14th centuries. These intricate and beautifully crafted graves provide a glimpse into the rich history of the abbey and the significance it held as a pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages. The subterranean crypt of the abbey further adds to its mystique, with its hidden chambers and solemn atmosphere.

The abbey's most striking structure is its massive unfinished church, a testament to the grandeur and ambition of the original builders. Despite its incomplete state, the church still stands as an impressive architectural marvel, captivating visitors with its size and majesty.

Throughout history, the Abbaye de Montmajour has attracted the attention of artists and filmmakers. Vincent van Gogh, in particular, found inspiration in the abbey and its surroundings, often painting and drawing its landscapes. The picturesque ruins and serene atmosphere provided Van Gogh with a rich artistic muse.

In the 18th century, the abbey became the site of a large Maurist monastery, but over time it fell into ruin. Nevertheless, the abbey remains a significant cultural and historical landmark, recognized as a monument historique since 1840 by the French Ministry of Culture. Today, the ruins of the abbey are carefully preserved and maintained as a historic monument by the Centre des monuments nationaux.

Visitors to the Abbaye de Montmajour can explore the remnants of this ancient monastery, marvel at the architecture and rock-carved graves, and immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of the surrounding landscape.