The abbey was famously known as a retirement home for the Provencal aristocracy, specifically widowed or noble women.
It was once the property of the Abbey of Saint-Victor in Marseille before becoming independent.
During the French Revolution, the monastery was largely secularized and sold off as national property.
The Romanesque church features a rare 'barrel vault' roof construction common to the region in the 12th century.
The abbey garden was restored based on archeological soil samples to reflect the original monastic herb and vegetable patches.
The property is now part of the 'Hostellerie de l'Abbaye de la Celle', which holds a Michelin star.
The Royal Abbaye de la Celle is a 12th-century Benedictine monastery located in the Var department of Provence. It is uniquely recognized for its history as a place of retreat for noblewomen and royalty, including Garsinde de Sabran, Countess of Provence. The site features a restored Romanesque church with distinctive limestone masonry and an interior reflecting centuries of architectural evolution. Visitors can explore the cloisters and the monastic gardens, which have been rehabilitated to showcase medieval botanical traditions. The site currently serves as both a cultural heritage landmark and a high-end hospitality venue under the Alain Ducasse brand. The monastery's stone walls provide a cooling effect during the hot Mediterranean summers. It serves as an example of Provencal Romanesque architecture integrated with contemporary, minimalist interior restoration. The complex is situated at the edge of a small village, preserving its quiet, sequestered atmosphere.
The arched corridors of the Romanesque cloister looking out toward the garden.
Combine your visit to the historical cloisters with a reservation at the on-site restaurant for a complete experience.
Wear comfortable, flat-soled walking shoes as the original stone floors and outdoor garden paths can be uneven.
Check the official website for rotating temporary art exhibitions hosted within the monastic spaces.
Do not attempt to enter private sections of the hotel restricted to overnight guests.
The site is typically closed to visitors on certain weekdays during the off-season; check before travel.
Maintain a quiet demeanor inside the historical building; if dining, smart-casual attire is recommended.
