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Origin and history

Saint John de Laon Abbey is a Benedictine abbey founded in 641 by Saint Salaberge, widow and disciple of Saint Eustase, south of Laon. Originally a female monastery dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, he welcomed 300 nuns before becoming a double monastery. A 17th century painting, preserved at the Museum of Laon, illustrates the arrival of Salaberge. The chapel gate, classified in 1911, and the monumental 18th century staircase, inscribed in 1927, bear witness to its architectural heritage.

The abbey underwent several major reconstructions: after the fire of 1112, in the 15th century with the addition of a polygonal bedside, and in 1663 after the introduction of the reform of Saint Maur. In 1742, the cloister and stairs were redone. After the Revolution, the buildings housed the Aisne prefecture, with 19th-century developments. The church, destroyed in 1808, remains only through its 15th century portal.

The abbey scriptorium, rich in more than 300 pounds, serves as the basis for the school in Laon. Two abbesses mark his history: Saint Salaberge (founder in 641) and his daughter, Saint Anstrude (abbess around 688-707). The bombings of 1944 destroyed some of the buildings, followed by reconstructions in the 20th century. Today, the site still hosts the services of the prefecture.

The protected remains include the chapel gate (classified in 1911), the monumental staircase and the attic (registered in 1927). Architects Carrier and Gilbert transformed the north wing in 1808 to adapt the premises to their new administrative function. The original materials, such as limestone and brick vaults, remind medieval and modern times.

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