AbbeyRuins
Abbey of the Vow, Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin›France
4.4(73 reviews)
1h
Plan your visit
About Abbey of the Vow
Founded in 1145 by Empress Matilda, granddaughter of William the Conqueror, this Augustinian abbey was built on a marshy peninsula after a legendary vow made during a storm at sea. The site features substantial 12th-13th century ruins including a chapter house with distinctive Norman architecture and one of the finest refectories in the Manche department. Repeatedly damaged during medieval conflicts and the Wars of Religion, the abbey was suppressed in 1774 and later converted to workers' housing before being set ablaze by retreating German forces in 1944.
Abbey of the Vow — Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Open daily08:00 - 21:00
The chapter house demonstrates a rare Norman architectural feature: it was built parallel to the church axis rather than perpendicular, causing it to project beyond the eastern wall of the dormitory wing. This unusual design makes it one of the most distinctive chapter houses in Normandy.
Travel Plans in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Explore a city in one day
- Step-by-step walking route through the city
- Transport options with travel times and fares
- Entrance fees and opening hours for every stop
- Total cost calculated based on your preferences
Day Routes
View all
7h 31min
Best of Cherbourg in one day
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
CoastalHistoricalFirst-time Visitorand 2 more
Moderate
Car
Public Transit
€32.00
7h 23min
Cherbourg in one day
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
HistoricalMaritimeFirst-time Visitorand 3 more
Relaxed
Car
Public Transit
€27.00
6h 20min
Historic Cherbourg in one day
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
HistoricalCastleGardensand 3 more
Relaxed
Car
Public Transit
€6.80
