Shuttle Transfer to the ancient abbey of Port-Royal

History and Visit to Paris of the Ancient Abbey of Port-Royal

The ancient Abbey of Port-Royal, nestled in the picturesque Chevreuse Valley southwest of Paris in the town of Magny-les-Hameaux, stands as a testament to significant historical events and spiritual endeavors. The foundation of the abbey in 1204 by Mathilde of Garland, with substantial support from her husband Matthew Marly who tragically lost his life during the Fourth Crusade, marked the beginning of a remarkable ecclesiastical establishment. Originally named “Porrois” due to the wild leeks surrounding the site, this women’s abbey quickly gained renown among the clerics and French royalty, eventually adopting the more prestigious name of “Port Royal.”

In its infancy, Port Royal relied on the guidance of the staff from nearby abbeys due to the youth and inexperience of its inhabitants. However, by 1214, under the leadership of Abbess Ermberge, the abbey declared its independence, albeit with a modest community of ten priors. The endorsement by Pope Honorius III for the celebration of mass marked a pivotal moment in the abbey’s spiritual journey. The Marquise de Sevigne aptly nicknamed it “terrible wilderness” for its isolation and the solace it offered to those seeking refuge from societal temptations. Despite its austere conditions, with no floors in its buildings except for the bell tower completed in 1229 under Robert de Luzarches, the abbey flourished, becoming one of the wealthiest in Paris through its agricultural and forestry endeavors.

Decline and Legacy of Port-Royal Abbey

The relentless Hundred Years’ War precipitated the decline of Port-Royal Abbey, culminating in its eventual dismantlement in the 18th century by the decree of Louis XIV. Despite facing numerous challenges and criticisms, the abbey experienced a renaissance under the stewardship of Abbess Angelique Arnauld, transforming it into a hub for intellectuals and a beacon of praise. Its architectural splendor, particularly the Gothic church shaped like a Latin cross with a square base and the remnants of a 13th-century dovecote, bear witness to its storied past. Significant renovations in the 16th century under Abbess Jeanne II revitalized the church, ensuring its legacy endured even as the abbey faced destruction. Today, what remains of Port-Royal are treasured monuments, with parts lying in ruins, officially recognized as historic monuments on 10 October 2008, inviting visitors to explore the echoes of its once-grand existence.

Taxi Transfer to the Ancient Abbey of Port-Royal

Effortlessly arrange your journey to the historic abbey of Port-Royal with our exclusive private VIP shuttle service. Our dedicated team is ready to provide a warm welcome and ensure a smooth transfer from any airport of your choosing. Nestled in the serene outskirts of Paris, the ancient abbey of Port-Royal is conveniently located just 15 km from Orly Airport, making it a short and comfortable ride for visitors arriving from this terminal. For those landing at Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport, the abbey is situated 35 miles away, offering an easy access to this site rich in history and tranquility. Additionally, travelers coming from Beauvais Airport will find the abbey accessible at a distance of 97 km, ensuring that, regardless of your point of entry into Paris, reaching the serene and historic abbey of Port-Royal is hassle-free and straightforward.