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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Priory of Notre-Dame de Longefont was founded around 1110 by Pierre Isambert, lord of Cors, who donated it to Robert d'Arbrissel, founder of the order of Fontevraud. Originally named Abbatia Longi Fontis (Abbey of Grande-Fontaine), this female priory settled in a loop of Creuse, on land offered by the local nobility. The church, built after 1140, adopted a simple plan with unique nave and choir in hemicycle, characteristic of monastic Romanesque architecture.

A criminal arson ravaged the priory in 1638, saving only the church but forcing the nuns to a ten-year wander between the castles of Cors and Argenton-sur-Creuse. The French Revolution sealed its fate: closed in 1792, sold as national property in 1793-1796, the building fell into ruin until the collapse of its vault in 1830. The Romanesque and frescoed capitals were buried under the rubble, while the convent buildings were partially demolished or renovated.

In the 19th century, Prosper Blanchemain acquired the estate in 1853 and transformed the prioral mansion into a small neo-Gothic castle, adding turrets and elevations. His son, Paul Blanchemain, heir to the place, then incorporated him into his property in Castel-Biray. It was not until the early 2000s that François and Agnes Chombart de Lauwe undertook a major restoration of the church, exhuming capitals, columns and altar after eight years of work (2007-2015). Their commitment, 70 % financed from equity, earned them the Grand Trophy of the most beautiful restoration in 2016.

Today, the site preserves emblematic remains: the 18th century Prioral Manor, the confessor's house overlooking the Creuse, a 17th-18th century barn, and traces of the cloister. The church, now dedicated to Saint Philomena, has blue stained glass windows evoking water, in tribute to a daughter of the owners who died in 1998. The priory thus illustrates a millennium history, marked by faith, political upheavals and heritage passion.

Recent excavations and studies have brought to light remarkable elements, such as a 16th-15th century jube or a medieval sundial engraved on stone. These discoveries, coupled with the restoration of frescoes and the blue fountain, offer a rare testimony of monastic life in Berry. The priory, open to the visit, now embodies the resilience of a heritage saved from oblivion by the combined action of the State (classification of 2007) and private patrons.

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