Le Liget Charterhouse

Le Liget Charterhouse, also known in French as Chartreuse du Liget, was a significant Carthusian monastery situated in Chemillé-sur-Indrois, within the Indre-et-Loire department of France. Its establishment in 1178 by King Henry II of England, Count of Anjou, is historically notable. A persistent tradition suggests its founding was an act of penance for the murder of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, though contemporary documents do not explicitly support this claim.

History and Development

The monastery's history is marked by periods of growth and severe destruction. Following its founding, Le Liget rapidly expanded its domain, acquiring significant lands that included farms, meadows, and forests. The initial monastic buildings comprised twelve cells, which were later expanded by King Charles V. However, the charterhouse suffered greatly during the Hundred Years' War, when it was besieged and pillaged, leading to the fortification of its lower house, the Corroirie. Further devastation occurred during the French Wars of Religion. Despite these setbacks, the monastery experienced a period of revival in the 17th and 18th centuries, accumulating valuable assets and hosting notable guests.

Destruction and Preservation

The French Revolution brought about the final major destruction of Le Liget Charterhouse. In 1790, the monastery's property was nationalized and subsequently sold. The buildings were largely demolished, and parts were repurposed, such as stables. Despite this extensive demolition, significant remnants of the medieval structures were preserved and are now registered as historical monuments. These include the fortified gate of the Corroirie, its chapel, an old prison, and the Chapel of Saint-Jean-du-Liget, which dates back to the late 12th century and features surviving frescoes. The ongoing efforts in the 19th century by the Marsay family contributed to the conservation and restoration of parts of the domain, ensuring that these historical vestiges continue to tell the story of this once-thriving Carthusian foundation.