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Abbaye de Saint-Julien: A Blend of History and Architecture

Explore the Abbaye de Saint-Julien in Tours, a historic Benedictine abbey showcasing Romanesque and Gothic architecture from the 10th to 16th centuries.

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The Abbaye de Saint-Julien in Tours is a former Benedictine abbey with origins in the 6th century. The current buildings, dating from the 10th to 16th centuries, showcase Romanesque and Gothic styles. The site has been recognized as a historic monument.

A brief summary to Abbaye de Saint-Julien

  • Thursday 6:30 pm-8 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture evident in the abbey's structure.
  • Visit the church to see the stained glass windows crafted by Max Ingrand and Jacques Le Chevallier.
  • Take a walk around the area to appreciate the historical surroundings of Vieux-Tours.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Abbaye de Saint-Julien is located at 20 Rue Nationale in Tours. From the Tours Cathedral, walk south on Rue Nationale for approximately 700 meters. The abbey will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    The Fil Bleu tram and bus network serves the city of Tours. From the Tours Cathedral, head to the bus stop 'Cloître' located just outside the cathedral. Take Bus Line 1 towards 'Tours Nord' and get off at the 'Place de la Liberté' stop. From there, walk south on Rue Nationale for about 200 meters. The Abbaye de Saint-Julien will be on your left at 20 Rue Nationale. A single fare Fil Bleu ticket costs approximately €1.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Tours. A taxi ride from the Tours train station to the Abbaye de Saint-Julien, approximately 1.5 km, will cost around €11 during the day. Taxi rates generally start at €2.00, with an additional €1.80 per kilometer.

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Discover more about Abbaye de Saint-Julien

The Abbaye de Saint-Julien, located in the heart of Tours, is a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution. Founded in the 6th century, the abbey has undergone numerous transformations, reflecting the changing styles and fortunes of the region. Originally established by Clovis I, the King of the Franks, in the early 6th century, the abbey was intended to honor Saint Martin following Clovis's victory over the Visigoths. Over time, monks and ascetics settled around the Notre-Dame oratory, forming the nucleus of the future Abbaye de Saint-Julien. The abbey faced destruction during the Norman invasions in the 9th century but was rebuilt in the 10th century under Archbishop Théotolon. The present-day buildings showcase a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements, reflecting various construction phases from the 10th to the 16th centuries. The bell tower, standing at 25 meters, is a notable feature, likely dating back to the 11th-century Romanesque reconstruction. The nave, rebuilt from 1243 to 1259, exemplifies Gothic architecture. Throughout its history, the Abbaye de Saint-Julien has experienced periods of both prosperity and adversity. It served various purposes, including being used as a stable and coach house during the French Revolution. In the 20th century, the abbey suffered damage during World War II, with the destruction of monastic buildings and damage to the church. Today, the Abbaye de Saint-Julien stands as a symbol of resilience and architectural grandeur, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and admire its stunning Gothic features.

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