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Escaladieu (L')

Escaladieu Abbey was founded in the foothills of Central Pyrenees Mountains by monks from Morimond in around 1140. The abbey includes no less than 13 ?houses?, direct descendants of Escaladieu: 2 in Gascogne (Bouillas, Flaran), the others in Spain. In just ten years, the Cistercians learnt to combine economic success with the development of the Order. During the religious wars the abbey was a prime target: the narthex, the first bay, the Chancel as well as the refectory and the lay brothers' building were destroyed. Since the XVIIth century many parts have been restored: the roof of the church, the monks' quarters, the hostelry, the cloister, the workshops and the fishpond. Sold as a National asset in 1793, only a few parts of the cloister can be admired today. In 1997, it became the property of Hautes-Pyrenees County Council, which began a long-term restoration program and developed a variety of cultural activities. Significantly marked by the vicissitudes of the past, Escaladieu abbey remains a historical treasure offering a subtle combination of roman and gothic art. Discover the original ribbed vaults of the chapter house with columns built using local marble from Campan. The penance room - or ?prison?- is a reminder of the austere living conditions of the monks in this relaxing beautiful green setting where each would linger with pleasure. Now, Escaladieu is going digital and has chosen to develop European exchanges through the European Route of Cistercian abbeys (part of the ?Council of Europe Cultural Routes? programme).