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Nine centuries of history
Founded in 1114, the Cistercian Abbey of Pontigny has been a prominent feature of the Yonne landscape and history for over 900 years. Over the centuries, it has seen it all, from dark times to glorious splendour.
In the 12th century, it was renowned throughout the world, with 44 branches.
At the beginning of the 20th century, it hosted the Pontigny Decades.
Today, under the impetus of the François Schneider Foundation, it is at the heart of an ambitious programme on Earth that will enable it to write a new page in its history.
Its abbey church is one of the best-preserved Cistercian abbey churches. It features majestic and timeless architecture. Visit the abbey on your own, with a guide or through an immersive experience and step into its history.
The visits
les visites
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Spirit of the land
A SOUND JOURNEY THROUGH THE UNIQUE HISTORY OF THE ABBEY
With a narrator and headphones, (re)discover the exceptional Pontigny Abbey in a whole new way. This immersive audio tour takes you back in time and brings the Abbey to life through the centuries. Meet its historical figures, its monks, the craftsmen who built it, Queen Adèle, the English archbishop Thomas Beckett, the intellectuals who gathered for the Décades... a memorable sensory experience. History awaits you!
Every day at any time (last departure 1 hour before closing) | Duration: 1 hour | Audience: for everyone aged 6 and over; alone or in a group | Bilingual French and English.
Prices:
Adult: €13, reduced €11, children (7 to 12 years old): €6
Family pass (2 adults + 2 children aged 7-12): €36
Free for children under 7.
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Rendez-vous with History
a guided-tour of the heart of the abbey
Accompanied by a guide, explore the exceptional history and architecture that give Pontigny Abbey its unique character. They will take you on a journey of discovery through the mysteries of the construction of this 12th-century abbey church and the daily life of the Cistercian monks, explaining the strategic role of this second daughter of Cîteaux and the events that have shaped its history over the centuries. An inspiring tour that will captivate history and heritage enthusiasts alike, as well as those who are simply curious.
From March to mid-November and during the Christmas holidays: every day at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. || From mid-November to the end of February: by reservation
Duration: 1 hour | Audience: for everyone aged 6 and over; individuals or groups | Bilingual French and English |
Prices: adults: €13, concessions: €11
children (7-12 years old): €6
free for children under 7
From 3rd of November 2025, these tours must be booked on week. (no reservation for week-ends and public holidays). Thank you.
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A break at the Abbey
A visit on your own
Stroll freely through the grounds and explore the site at your own pace. A few information panels will help you understand the site, but above all, let yourself be carried away by its grandeur and natural beauty: observe the remains of the Cistercian cloister, stroll through Paul Desjardins' arbour, stop in the shade of the majestic purple beech tree, which now houses a work of art, and listen to nature...
Every day at any time (last admission 30 minutes before closing) | Duration: unlimited | Audience: for everyone; alone or in a group |
Prices:
adults: €10, concessions: €8, children (7-12 years old) €5, family pass (2 adults + 2 children) €28
free for children under 7
Opening hours
Every day, from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Immersive sound tour: all day long
Guided tours in French: 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
*Guided tours in English: booking required
The Gardener's House
Tea room, Café, Restaurant
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.