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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Abbey of Notre-Dame-de-la-Roche was founded around 1196 by Gui I of Lévis, local lord. Its construction took place mainly during the 2nd quarter of the 13th century, as evidenced by architectural analyses (Moutié, p.199). This monastery, located in Lévis-Saint-Nom (now Yvelines department), reflected the influence of religious orders in the region at that time, as well as the patronage of the local noble families.

In the 16th century, the abbey underwent notable changes: the structure of the southern transept was rebuilt in 1532, marking a first phase of renovation. The early 17th century saw the building of the abbey house, agricultural buildings and two doors in the western wall of the transept of the chapel. These additions illustrate the adaptation of the site to the residential and economic needs of the time, while maintaining its religious vocation.

The 17th and 18th centuries were marked by partial destruction: the cloister disappeared at the end of the 17th century (approximate date), while the dovecote was razed at the end of the 18th century, as attested by the national archives (version of architecture, box LXV, 45). These losses reflect the upheavals suffered by many religious buildings after the Revolution, although the abbey itself was inscribed in the Historical Monuments by order of 28 October 1926, thus preserving part of its heritage.

Today, the abbey is located in the Yvelines (Ile-de-France region), with an approximate location reported at 5 Place Levitt, Le Mesnil-Saint-Denis (GPS coordinates). Its state of conservation and its openness to the public (visits, rooms rental) remain partially documented, although its registration under the Historical Monuments guarantees its legal protection.

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