The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest medieval abbeys still remain.  It is 13 hectares of  “must-see” with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. It is historical significant as it is the final resting place of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Queen of France and of England her husband Henry 2nd and their son Richard the Lionheart.

You can get a glimpse into what life was like living as a nun here: how they grew and prepared food; dining hall; prayer; how and what they studied and the nature of their sleeping rooms.

In common with a number of Chateau, the Abbey also had a turn at confining some of France’s toughest criminals!