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Abbaye Toussaint: A Blend of History and Art

Discover the Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers: Where a historic abbey provides a stunning backdrop for the sculptures of David d'Angers.

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The Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers, originally founded in 1040, has transformed through the centuries from a Catholic abbey to a modern museum, the Galerie David d'Angers. It showcases a stunning collection of sculptures by the Angers-born artist Pierre-Jean David, set within the unique architecture of a restored abbey church.

A brief summary to Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the serene atmosphere of the abbey and the art gallery.
  • Take your time to explore the details of David d'Angers' sculptures, from the grand monuments to the delicate busts and medallions.
  • Check out the abbey's garden for a peaceful moment surrounded by greenery and historical architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Abbaye Toussaint is located at 35 Rue Toussaint in Angers. From the Place du Ralliement, a central point in Angers, walk northeast along Rue Saint-Aubin. Turn left onto Rue Toussaint; the abbey will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Angers-Saint-Laud train station, take tram line A or C towards the city center. Get off at the Ralliement stop and walk northeast on Rue Saint-Aubin. Turn left onto Rue Toussaint; the abbey will be on your left. A single ticket costs €1.60 and is valid for one hour.

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Discover more about Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers

The Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers, now home to the Galerie David d'Angers, offers a unique experience where history and art converge. Founded in 1040 as a Catholic abbey, it served initially as a charitable institution. In the 13th century, Augustinian canons rebuilt it into one of Angers' five major abbeys, featuring a distinctive T-shaped (Tau) church layout. The church's elegant design showcased Angevin Gothic architecture. Over the centuries, the abbey underwent several transformations. In 1627, canons from Sainte-Geneviève de Paris renovated the convent buildings and added a rose window to the church. During the French Revolution, the army occupied the site until 1968. By 1810, lack of maintenance led to the collapse of the church's vaults, turning it into a romantic ruin embraced by ivy and trees. It was classified as a historical monument in 1902. In 1984, after an audacious restoration, the abbey reopened as the Galerie David d'Angers, dedicated to the works of the renowned sculptor Pierre-Jean David (David d'Angers). The gallery displays David's sculptures, busts, and medallions, providing insight into his creative process. The contemporary restoration incorporates glass and metal elements to highlight the original architecture.

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