Sénanque Abbey near Gordes

Visit the Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque, located near the famous village of Gordes in the Vaucluse, Provence, now run by monks.

Sénanque Abbey was founded in 1148 and features Romanesque architecture.

Tourists can visit the church, walk under its cloister and explore the chapter house, once used to hold large meetings. A dining room was added in the 17th century.

The abbey is based on a tau cross shape with a semicircular recessed dome.

Stroll through the lavender fields tended by the resident monks of Sénanque Abbey.

The abbey is still in use today.

The abbey built in the 12th century is still inhabited today by the Cistercian monks who have chosen it as a place of retirement. It consists of several rooms open to visitors, have an abbey church characterized by medieval architecture. In the crypt of this church is the tomb of Geoffrey de Venasque, protector of the abbey.

When is the best time to visit the Abbey? If you want to enjoy the lavender in bloom, we advise you to visit the abbey at the beginning of July.

How to visit the abbey? You will have the choice between the guided tour or the audioguide. It is very rare to be able to visit an abbey, but you will have the opportunity to visit the abbey in detail with the Abbey Church, the Chauffoir, the Lapidary Marks, the Cloister, the Chapter, the old dormitory.

Official website: https://www.senanque.fr