Flavigny Abbey
Benedictine·France·former monastery, now factory·8th century
Flavigny Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery located in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, France, was founded in 717 by Widerad and became renowned for the relics it preserved, including those of Saint Praejectus and Saint Regina. After its dissolution during the French Revolution, the abbey's buildings were sold and repurposed, with a family factory now occupying the site and continuing the tradition of producing the well-known Anise de Flavigny confectionery.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 717 by Widerad.
- ›Originally a Benedictine monastery.
- ›Housed relics of Saint Praejectus and Saint Regina.
- ›The monks were the original makers of Anise de Flavigny sweets.
- ›Dissolved during the French Revolution and later sold.
- ›Currently occupied by the Troubat family's aniseed confectionery factory.
Relics of Saint Praejectus, Relics of Saint Regina, Original Production Site of Anise De Flavigny
Widerad, Manasses, Pippin the Short, Charlemagne, Louis the Pious, Edmond Galimard, Jean Troubat, Nicolas Troubat, Catherine Troubat
- Founded In 717.
- Transfer of Saint Praejectus Relics In 755.
- Pope John Viii Dedicated the New Church Around 877.
- Dissolved During the French Revolution.
About Flavigny Abbey
Flavigny Abbey, situated in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain in the Côte-d'Or department of France, is a former Benedictine monastery with a history stretching back to its founding in 717 by Widerad. Initially established on the site of an older monastic foundation, the abbey rose to prominence partly due to the relics it housed, notably those of Saint Praejectus and Saint Regina. During its peak in the eighth century, under Abbot Manasses, the abbey received significant royal authorization from Pippin the Short and later Charlemagne.
The monastery's religious significance continued with various abbot appointments and episcopal oversight. The abbey was rebuilt in the 17th century by the Benedictines of the Congregation of St. Maur, who were engaged in historical research, though their findings were lost during the French Revolution.
Following its dissolution, the abbey's buildings were sold off. The tradition of producing the well-known aniseed confectionery, Anise de Flavigny, which originated with the monks, was continued by villagers. Over time, Edmond Galimard consolidated various production units, and the Troubat family acquired the factory in 1923. Today, the former abbey is occupied by the Troubat family's factory, representing the third generation of their involvement in the anise sweet production, thus preserving a unique historical and culinary legacy.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Flavigny Abbey founded?
Flavigny Abbey was founded in 717 by Widerad. The site itself may have housed an earlier monastic foundation dating from the time of Clovis.
What is Flavigny Abbey most famous for?
The abbey is historically significant for the relics it preserved, including those of Saint Praejectus and Saint Regina. Today, it is renowned as the original home of the Anise de Flavigny confectionery, a tradition continued by the current occupants.
What happened to Flavigny Abbey after the French Revolution?
Following the French Revolution, the abbey was dissolved, and its buildings were sold and divided into private properties. The monks fled, and the site eventually became occupied by villagers who continued the tradition of making anise sweets.
Who occupies Flavigny Abbey today?
The former abbey is now home to a handcraft and family factory operated by the Troubat family, who have been producing the Anise de Flavigny confectionery for generations.
What religious tradition was associated with Flavigny Abbey?
Flavigny Abbey was a Benedictine monastery.
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