Chancelade
Chancelade Abbey is an Augustinian monastery located in Chancelade, France, founded in 1129. It endured significant damage during the Hundred Years' War and the French Wars of Religion but was restored in 1623 by Alain de Solminihac. Today, a contemporary monastic community occupies some buildings and has completed new facilities.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1129 as an Augustinian monastery.
- ›Suffered damage during the Hundred Years' War and French Wars of Religion.
- ›Restored in 1623 by Alain de Solminihac.
- ›Economist Nicolas Baudeau taught theology at the abbey.
- ›A contemporary monastic community is currently active on the site.
- ›Completed a new community house in 2016.
Abbaye Notre-Dame De Chancelade
Alain De Solminihac, Nicolas Baudeau
Damage During the Hundred Years' War, Damage During the French Wars of Religion, Restoration In 1623
About Chancelade
Chancelade Abbey
Chancelade Abbey, known formally as Abbaye Notre-Dame de Chancelade, is a historic Augustinian monastery situated in Chancelade, within the Dordogne region of France. Its foundation dates back to the year 1129, establishing it as a significant religious institution with roots stretching into the 12th century.
History and Significance
The abbey has weathered centuries of conflict, sustaining damage during the Hundred Years' War in the 14th century and again during the French Wars of Religion in the 16th century. A pivotal moment in its history came in 1623 when Alain de Solminihac initiated a restoration of the abbey. De Solminihac's commitment to the site was further cemented when he was consecrated abbot of Chancelade by Pope Urban VIII in 1636.
Beyond its religious function, the abbey also served as a center for learning, with the economist Nicolas Baudeau notably teaching theology within its walls. This period highlights the monastery's role in intellectual and spiritual life.
Contemporary Community
Today, Chancelade Abbey continues its monastic tradition. A contemporary monastic community resides in and utilizes some of the historical buildings. In a testament to its ongoing vitality, the community completed the construction of a new community house on the site in 2016, ensuring the continuation of monastic life at Chancelade.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Chancelade Abbey founded?
Chancelade Abbey was founded in the year 1129. It has a long history dating back to the 12th century.
What religious order is Chancelade Abbey associated with?
Chancelade Abbey is an Augustinian monastery. It follows the Augustinian tradition of monastic life.
Has the abbey undergone significant damage throughout its history?
Yes, Chancelade Abbey was damaged by English troops in the 14th century during the Hundred Years' War and again by Protestants in the 16th century during the French Wars of Religion. However, it was later restored.
Is there an active monastic community at Chancelade Abbey today?
Yes, a contemporary monastic community is currently in occupation of some of the buildings at Chancelade Abbey. They completed a new community house on the site in 2016.
Who was responsible for the restoration of Chancelade Abbey?
Alain de Solminihac was instrumental in the restoration of Chancelade Abbey, undertaking the work in 1623. He was later consecrated abbot of Chancelade in 1636.
Related Monasteries
Chancelade Abbey
Chancelade Abbey, officially Abbaye Notre-Dame de Chancelade, is an Augustinian monastery located in Chancelade, France. Founded in 1129, it has a history marked by significant damage during the Hundred Years' War and the French Wars of Religion, followed by restoration efforts in the 17th century. Today, a contemporary monastic community occupies some of its buildings and has established a new community house.
Herzogenburg Priory
Herzogenburg Monastery is an Augustinian monastery located in Herzogenburg, Lower Austria, founded in 1112. Initially established at St. Georgen an der Traisen, it was relocated due to flooding and significantly refurbished in the Baroque style starting in 1714 by prominent architects. The monastery successfully navigated imperial dissolutions in the late 18th century and houses an important art collection emphasizing late Gothic works, alongside Baroque pieces.

Llanthony Secunda Priory
Llanthony Secunda Priory was an Augustinian monastic house founded in 1136 by Miles de Gloucester. It served as a secondary house and refuge for the canons of the original Llanthony Priory. The priory became known for its cheese-making and its role in historical events, including a disputed connection to the 'Humpty Dumpty' rhyme. Today, its surviving remains are a Grade I listed building and a scheduled ancient monument, with restoration efforts leading to its re-opening to the public.