Prémontré Abbey

Prémontré Abbey was established in 1120 by Saint Norbert of Xanten. He founded the abbey in a desolate, marshy valley in the Aisne department of northern France, establishing it as the mother house for his newly formed religious order.

The Premonstratensian Order, also known as the Norbertines, is a Catholic religious order of canons regular founded at Prémontré Abbey. Unlike traditional monks who lived entirely isolated, the Norbertines combined contemplative life with active ministry and preaching in the surrounding communities.

The original medieval abbey was largely destroyed during the violent French Revolution in the late 18th century. Today, the site features a grand 18th-century classical style estate that survived, as the medieval ruins were repurposed or dismantled over the centuries.

Yes, the site of Prémontré Abbey is open to visitors, who can explore the surviving 18th-century buildings and the beautiful surrounding grounds. It hosts occasional tours and historical exhibits that detail the life of Saint Norbert and the architectural evolution of the mother house.