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Origin and history

The abbey Our Lady of Argentan finds its origins in the foundation of the abbey of Almenêches at the end of the seventh century by Saint Evroult, destroyed by the Normans and restored around 1060 under the Benedictine rule. In the 16th century, it was reformed by Fontevrault, then transferred to Argentan in 1736 by order of Louis XV, around the former church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Place. The Revolution dispersed the community, which was rebuilt in 1822 at Vimoutiers, then returned to Argentan in 1830 before being destroyed again in 1944 during the Battle of Normandy.

The current remains, located on Rue Saint-Martin, date from the 12th, 15th and 17th centuries and include a 15th century structure, classified as a historical monument in 1986. The medieval church, originally a place of pilgrimage, was converted into an abbey church in the 17th century before being sold in 1820. The bombings of 1944 partially spared its walls, offering a rare example of Norman Romanesque architecture in Argentan. The community, relocated in 1958 to the outskirts of the city, has been there ever since the Benedictine tradition.

The abbey's contemporary spirituality is based on prayer, Gregorian chant and artisanal work, including Argentan lace (exclusive needlepoint), religious silkscreening and calligraphy. The contemplative nuns maintain an active monastic life, centered on the search for God. The crypt houses a relic of Saint Opportune, an abbess of the eighth century, and the nave a Virgin with Child of the fourteenth century, tangible links with the past.

The Abbey illustrates the historical upheavals of Normandy, from Viking destructions to modern wars, religious reforms and reconstructions. Its architectural heritage, though fragmentary, and its unbroken monastic life since the seventh century make it a symbol of spiritual and cultural resilience. The monastic workshops today perpetuate secular know-how, while adapting their production to contemporary media (CD of Gregorian chant, screen printed images).

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