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Origin and history

The Abbey of the Grace God, founded in 1135 by the monks of Clairvaux, is the 16th abbey-daughter of the latter. Its creation was made possible thanks to the gifts of Alienor of Aquitaine and King Louis VII. The Cistercian monks undertook extensive work to dewater the marshes of Andilly, thereby valuing the surrounding lands. The abbey experienced a period of prosperity, founding itself the abbey of Charon as well as the priories of the Nevoire and Rioux.

From 1574 the abbey passed under the regime of commende, weakening its religious and economic vitality. Destroyed largely during the Wars of Religion (notably during the siege of La Rochelle), it was partially rebuilt in the 17th century under the impulse of Abbés Hugues Morisset and Élie Chevrauld. In 1723 only four religious still resided there, marking its decline.

Sold as a national property in 1791 to Thomas-Jean Main, the abbey changed hands several times before being acquired in 1893 by Louis Godet, mayor of Benon, whose descendants still owned it. Today, the site hosts receptions and events, while its current owners, Villeneuve's family, undertake restoration work to preserve this heritage.

The abbey was famous for its medieval abbey church (41 m long) and a so-called miraculous fountain, a place of annual pilgrimage on 14 and 15 August. Its history reflects the religious, political and social upheavals of France, from its foundation in the Middle Ages to its transformation into a private place.

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