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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Notre-Dame de Bonport Abbey, founded in 1189 by Richard Coeur de Lion, is a former Cistercian abbey located in Pont-de-l'Arche, Eure. According to legend, the King of England promised to build an abbey after escaping drowning in the Seine. Although no charter of foundation is preserved, a charter of 1190 confirms the donation of land and rights to the monks, from Notre-Dame du Val Abbey. Construction work began shortly afterwards, with privileges granted by Richard, then confirmed by Philippe Auguste after 1204.

The abbey reached its peak in the 13th and 14th centuries, thanks to stable incomes and the activity of its Copist monks, attracting many pilgrims. However, the Hundred Years' War caused significant damage, requiring reparations financed by the kings of France and England. In 1418, Henri V granted a safeguard to the monks to compensate them for hosting his troops. Despite these aids, the abbey declined from the 16th century with the establishment of the commende, where the abbots, often absent, neglected the management of the monastery.

The French Revolution marked the end of the abbey: sold as national property in 1791, its buildings were dismantled and its goods dispersed. The church is transformed into a stone quarry, and only a few elements remain in the 19th century, such as the refectory and dormitory. Repurchased in 1874 by the Lenoble family, the abbey is now privately owned and restored. It remains an architectural testimony of the medieval and classical periods, classified Historical Monument since 1942.

The archives of the Abbey, including a cartular of the 14th century and original charters preserved at the Departmental Archives of the Eure and Seine-Maritime, document its history. These sources, published by Jules Andrieux at the end of the 19th century, reveal the donations, privileges and conflicts that marked his evolution, from his foundation to his death.

The abbey is also linked to historical figures, such as poet Philippe Desportes, who died there in 1606. His coat of arms, from lily flowers and leopards, reflects his ties with the English and French sovereigns. Today, although partially in ruins, it attracts attention for its architectural heritage and its turbulent history, symbolizing the political and religious upheavals of Normandy.

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