Dalon Abbey

Dalon Abbey (Latin: Dalona; French: Abbaye de Dalon; Occitan: Abadiá de Dalon) is a former Cistercian monastery located in Sainte-Trie, Dordogne, southwestern France. Its history begins in 1114 when Gerald of Salles founded it as a Benedictine monastery, supported by donations from Gerald of Lastours and his brother Gouffier. The abbey's influence grew under its successor, the hermit Roger, who established several daughter monasteries and priories, forming the Order of Dalon.

History and Development

While not initially Cistercian, Dalon Abbey transitioned to the Cistercian Rule in 1162, becoming the third daughter house of Pontigny. This period saw it receive protection from prominent figures such as Henry Plantagenet, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Richard the Lionheart. A notable figure associated with the abbey is the troubadour Bertran de Born, who became a monk there and died in 1215. The abbey's economic reach extended to owning granges in Périgord and the Priory of Saint-Blaise.

Later History and Preservation

In the 17th century, parts of the original abbey, including the monks' building, the chapter house, and chapels, were incorporated into newly built dwellings. By the late 18th century, Dalon Abbey had become private property. On September 27, 1948, key structures, including the dwellings, chapter house, and dovecote, were officially listed as a Historic Monument, preserving remnants of its significant past.