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Origin and history

The Priory of Notre-Dame de Chênegallon, affiliated with the order of Grandmont, was founded in the 12th century by Rotrou III du Perche in the forest of Bellême, on a wetland surrounded by ponds. This monastic place, originally occupied by Limous monks, was reorganized in 1317 during the reform of the order, with the union of several such as Authon-aux-Bonshommes. The current 17th century buildings would be attributable to the bishop of Sées Neel de Christot, who regularly stayed there.

In 1772 the Commission des Reguliers ordered the abolition of the Grandmont Abbey and its priories under Louis XV. Chênegallon was closed in 1778, then his income transferred to the bishopric of Sées before being sold as national property during the Revolution. The church was demolished in the 19th century, but the remaining buildings, including the wrought iron ramp and the remains of the chapel, were listed as historical monuments on 19 December 1973.

The priory illustrates Percheron religious architecture, with its buildings organized around a courtyard. Its history reflects the upheavals of monastic orders between the Middle Ages and the Revolution, as well as their integration into the local landscape. Today, it bears witness to the great heritage of Normandy, despite the partial disappearance of its original structures.

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