Now a winery, farm, bookstore, and restaurant, Abbaye de Fontfroide is a former Cistercian monastery. The building's facade features classic Gothic style, and the choir has been called the Parthenon of the French Gothic. Examine the ornately carved wooden doors, an elaborate astronomical clock, tapestries from the 15th and 17th centuries, and famous stained-glass windows from the 13th, 14th, and 16th centuries. Some of the stained glass illustrate the elusive transitional stage between the Gothic and Renaissance artistic styles. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Abbaye de Fontfroide by using our Narbonne online driving holiday planner.
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Abbaye de Fontfroide reviews
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The abbey offers beautiful architecture and is a photographers delight. Although not as ornate as many later abbeys, the stark simplicity of the buildings is impressive. Hard to imagine the vast...
The abbey offers beautiful architecture and is a photographers delight. Although not as ornate as many later abbeys, the stark simplicity of the buildings is impressive. Hard to imagine the vast... more »
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Medieval abbey in southern France. Very well-kept buildings and garden. No longer used fot its original purpose, it has been renovated and made available to the public. A rare opportunity to see how..... more
Medieval abbey in southern France. Very well-kept buildings and garden. No longer used fot its original purpose, it has been renovated and made available to the public. A rare opportunity to see how..... more »
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The Abbaye is stunning in its size, complexity and state of preservation. The amber sandstone against the greenery and skies is stunning. The cloister is wonderfully serene; just sit and imagine the monks walking and reading. It's not far from Narbonne, and you can Uber for around 27 euro each way. Make sure to arrange a pick-up with your driver before he departs. Leave yourself 3 hours to walk the Abbaye, set the gardens, and do a wine tasting. Great way to spend an afternoon.
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Absolutely gorgeous. I was there in April and the wisterias were blooming. Looked and smelt amazing.
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