Monastery ruins in Foix, Ariège - Monument from the 14th century

Historic Property of a Former Cistercian Abbey from the 14th Century 
 

This landmark, built by the mother of Gaston Fébus, is a historic site of a former Cistercian abbey dating back to the 14th century. Located in a dominant position within a protected agricultural zone, the enclosed complex was modified in the 19th century. It is situated 29 km from Foix.

History of the Abbey

Aliénor de Comminges, the mother of Gaston Fébus and Countess of Foix, commissioned the construction of this abbey. Surrounded by 17.49 hectares of agricultural land, this abbey, established in 1353, was affected by a fire that led to its current state. Even in its ruined condition, the ensemble remains an impressive presence overlooking the village. The U-shaped layout includes auxiliary buildings, a chapel, the chapter house, the cloister, and the castle built in the 19th century. The property is classified as a protected historical monument (Monument historique), and the 1.49-hectare plot enclosed by the ancient abbey walls is also listed as a historic monument (ISMH).

The 14th-Century Cistercian Abbey

This abbey was the only Cistercian abbey in the County of Foix. In the 19th century, it was transformed by the construction of a castle. The former garden area now features a spacious terrace with a pool, oriented towards the southwest. In addition to the main building, there is a large sheep barn on two levels and two other auxiliary buildings. The entire property requires extensive renovation work.

Location in Southern France

Foix is a historic town in the Ariège department of the Occitanie region. The medieval castle is the town's landmark. Notably, the property is situated close to the border crossing to Andorra and Spain.