Fleury Abbey

Step inside one of France's oldest Benedictine monasteries, where monks have chanted since the 7th century. The Romanesque tower-porch, raised between 1020 and 1035, features fifty sculpted capitals depicting biblical scenes and mythical beasts — a masterclass in medieval stone carving. Below the choir, a candlelit crypt shelters the relics of Saint Benedict of Nursia, drawing pilgrims from across the world. Time your visit to catch one of the Gregorian chant offices that punctuate the monks' day, and browse the monastery shop for handmade confectionery and painted porcelain. The basilica is open daily from 6:30 to 22:00 and entry is free; a restoration of the tower-porch roof is underway but does not affect access.