Hidden treasures

At the exit of the village of Longues-sur-mer, the old Saint Marie Abbey, built in the 12th century, is hidden along the small road leading to Bayeux. At first glance, visitors cannot imagine its importance or splendour. When one enters the first courtyard, surrounded by the abbey lodge, the noble pediment bears witness to the reconstruction conducted in the 18th century. You can then view the extensive remains of the church, the elegant Gothic structure of the choir, and a décor resembling that of Bayeux Cathedral. An exceptional collection of varnished paving stones excavated from the church are on display, as well as three rare flat ceramic  tombstones.

A series of gardens below the church offer a charming walk to the monk’s quarters, along the southern border of the estate. Nearby, a large medieval building stands that is known as the monks’ refectory but whose use was probably reserved for the Abbot and his guests. It houses interesting murals from the 14th century, as well as curious graffiti depicting religious objects. An Annunciation scene can be seen in what was the abbot’s oratory. An exceptional collection of tombstones and glazed tiles is on display.

Since the 1930s, the abbey has had a succession of owners, all passionate about its conservation and enhancement. The current owners  deploying all their efforts to make Longues Abbey known and loved, with the help of an association made up of village inhabitants.

In 2019, the abbey was selected as the so-called “emblematic” monument of the Stéphane Bern mission for the Normandy Region. This aid has enabled the restoration of the choir in 2021 and then of the refectory in 2022 and the restoration work continues until 2024. The program of events organized at the abbey is on the agenda of the Normandy abbeys website as well as on the networks social. A comfortable gite and spa- skies with a capacity of 10 people can be rented there by the week.