Background

Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes: A Beacon of Gregorian Chant

Discover a millennium of history, spirituality, and Gregorian chant at this active Benedictine abbey in the Sarthe Valley of France.

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The Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes, founded in 1010, is a Benedictine monastery renowned as a center for Gregorian chant. Located in Solesmes, France, it offers visitors a chance to experience spiritual and musical beauty within its historic walls and admire masterpieces of French Renaissance sculpture.

A brief summary to Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes

  • Monday 9 am-6:15 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6:15 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6:15 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6:15 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6:15 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6:15 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-6:15 pm

Local tips

  • Check the abbey's website for the schedule of services to experience the monks' renowned Gregorian chant.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the abbey, as it is an active place of worship.
  • Explore the village of Solesmes, taking a walk along the Sarthe river for picturesque views.
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Getting There

  • Train

    The closest train station is in Sablé-sur-Sarthe, which is served by the Paris-Montparnasse-Nantes TGV line. From Sablé-sur-Sarthe station, take a taxi to the Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes, a roughly 10-minute ride. Taxi services are available at the station. Expect to pay around €15-€20 for the taxi fare.

  • Car

    If driving, the abbey is located 5 km from Sablé-sur-Sarthe, approximately halfway between Le Mans and Angers. Take the A11 motorway (Paris-Nantes) and exit at Sablé. Alternatively, use the A81 motorway (Paris-Rennes) and exit at Brûlon. Parking is available near the abbey. Some parking areas are free , while others may have time limits. Be aware that some parking spots are located on a road with traffic.

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Discover more about Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes

Nestled in the Sarthe valley, the Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes has been a site of Benedictine monastic life since its founding in 1010. The abbey's history is intertwined with Gregorian chant, with the monks dedicating themselves to its preservation and study. The abbey was founded as a priory by Geoffroy le Vieil, and later rebuilt in the late 1400s after being sacked during the Hundred Years' War. It faced closure during the French Revolution but was revived in 1833 by Dom Prosper Guéranger, who restored it as a Benedictine monastery and established the French Benedictine Congregation. Today, the abbey continues its tradition of Gregorian chant and welcomes visitors to attend services in the abbey church. Within the church, visitors can admire the 'Saints of Solesmes,' sculpted groups from the 15th and 16th centuries that are considered masterpieces of the French Renaissance. These sculptures depict the Entombment of Christ and scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. The abbey also houses an exhibition on its history and monastic life. Experiencing the Gregorian chants during a service is an unforgettable spiritual and musical experience. The abbey is not only a place of worship and historical significance but also a testament to the enduring power of faith and music. Visitors can explore the grounds, attend services, and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims and music lovers for centuries.

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