Located in the commune of Ginals between Villefranche-de-Rouergue and Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, the abbey of Beaulieu-en-Rouergue is a jewel of Cistercian architecture. Since 2022, the site has housed a rich exhibition of modern art bequeathed by art critics and patrons Pierre Brache and Geneviève Bonnefoi.
Diving into Cistercian architecture
Sobriety and elegance in the heart of Beaulieu Abbey
Founded in the middle of the XNUMXth century, the Cistercian abbey of Beaulieu-en-Rouergue retained some of its monastic buildings. Nestled in the Seye valley, they are distributed according to the immutable plan of cistercian monks. Contemplate them simple and clean decor, faithful to the principles of the Cistercian monks.
Browse the cellar and chapter house, Where the Gothic style is primitive there. Look up to see squat ribbed vaults. In church, admire a more slender architecture, with a single nave and stained glass windows of great clarity. Around cloister, the highlight of the show: XNUMXth century painted decorations and lapidary fund discovered during recent archaeological excavations.
Modern art at Beaulieu Abbey
An exceptional collection to discover
In 1959, Pierre Brache and Geneviève Bonnefoi undertook the restoration of the site with the help of the State. Spanning from the 1940s to today, their art collection modern art is now taking part in the former apartments of the owner couple. Among the renowned artists, we can mention Jean Dubuffet, Simon Hantai, Henri michaux, Jean Degottex et Maria Helena Vieira da Silva. Between abstraction et matterism, gesture painting et cloudiness, let yourself be carried away by the scenography, through the thematic or monographic rooms. As a family, select your favorite works and imagine your own virtual exhibition in the church thanks to a fun device.
A bucolic and peaceful garden
Natural escape in the heart of Beaulieu Abbey
Extend your visit to the abbey gardens. Since 2022, the convent complex has been embellished with a landscaped garden where you can have a drink. Between the building and the old trout tank, the diversity of plant species will seduce you: Lebanese cedar, catalpa, magnolia, rose bushes and perennials offer a spectacle of colors all year round. Stroll through the flowerbeds with sinuous lines among the plants, offering natural perspectives composed of a thousand scents. Take the trails surroundings and discover wild orchids, a walk punctuated by beautiful viewpoints over the monastic complex.
Prepare your visit
From the former abbey outbuildings to the rose garden, explore the abbey spaces on a self-guided or guided tour.
| Rates | Min. | Max. |
|---|---|---|
| Individual adult – Individual rate |
9 € | Not disclosed |
| Adult group |
7,50 € | Not disclosed |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who manages Beaulieu Abbey?
It's the Centre des Monuments Nationaux which ensures the management, animation and opening to the public of the abbey of Beaulieu-en-Rouergue.
In which department is Beaulieu Abbey located?
Beaulieu Abbey is located in Tarn-et-Garonne, a few kilometers from the Aveyron department.
What is the cultural program of Beaulieu Abbey?
To find out about the abbey's cultural agenda, visit their website.
Who owns Beaulieu Abbey?
The French state has been the full owner of Beaulieu Abbey since the death of Geneviève Bonnefoi in 2018.
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Our territory is full of a heritage rich in history. If you like Beaulieu Abbey, our monasteries, churches and chapels will seduce you just as much! Extend your discovery of the territory with a walk in the romantic park of Loc Dieu Abbey, at the top of the bell tower of the Notre Dame collegiate church or even in secret pre-Romanesque church of Toulongergues.
