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Origin and history

Saint Paul de Verdun Abbey, founded in 973 by Benedictine monks outside the city walls, is named after Paul de Verdun, bishop of the seventh century. It passed under the direction of the pre-shows in 1135, receiving several papal confirmations in the 12th century. The abbey underwent several destructions and reconstructions, notably in 1552 on the order of Henry II, and was rebuilt intramural from 1556.

In the 17th century, abbey buildings were built between 1686 and 1698 by architect Thomas Mordillac in a classic style. At the end of the 18th century, a new neo-classical abbey was begun, but the French Revolution interrupted the work in 1789. The abbey was abolished in 1790, and its convent buildings, only preserved, were reassigned to public use.

Conventual buildings today house the courthouse and the Meuse's sub-prefecture. Damaged in World War I, they were restored after World War II. The former abbey has been listed as historical monuments since 1926, and some of its interior elements, such as the staircase and the office of the sub-prefect, have been protected since 1946.

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