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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Priory of the Madeleine de Croixval, located in Ternay, was founded in the 12th century under the dependence of the abbey of Tiron. This religious monument, marked by an evolutionary architecture, preserves traces of its medieval origins, especially in its main house of the 15th century, partially redesigned. The entrance door, its hammer, and a 16th century wooden staircase still bear witness to this period.

In 1566, the priory became the property of Pierre de Ronsard, renowned Renaissance poet, who stayed there until his death. This place became one of his favourite retreats, where he composed part of his work. After the Revolution, in 1793, the lands and buildings were sold and fragmented, resulting in the destruction of the chapel in the early nineteenth century. Only the crypt remains today.

The right wing of the priory, backed by the main building, dates from the 18th century, illustrating the later architectural changes. The site, classified as a Historic Monument in 1925, preserves remarkable elements such as period carpentry and a large stone gable. Its history reflects both its initial religious importance and its cultural role under Ronsard.

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