Abbaye Saint Pierre de Maillezais

Maillezais Abbey, the largest historic site in the Marais Poitevin

Discover the largest site in the Marais Poitevin
and cathedral builders, in the heart of some exceptional remains!
A powerful fortress, a Romanesque abbey and then a Gothic cathedral, Maillezais has shone for centuries in religious, economic and artistic terms.
Overlooking the canals dug by the monks to drain the Gulf of the Pictons, Maillezais stands on an island overlooking the Marais Poitevin, a splendid natural environment that is unique in France.
There's plenty to see and do all year round!

Guided tours all summer long.
Guided tours depart from 10am to 7pm (every day)

Summer events - 13 July to 28 August

What are we waiting for to be happy?
It's 1937 and archaeologist Christiane Le Ray is about to begin excavations to establish whether Maillezais contains the remains of a Neolithic enclosure, like so many in the Vendée. She is enthusiastic. She had just discovered an Aurochs femur at the foot of the abbey, a sign that this animal was present. With the support of Achille Daroux, Member of Parliament and Mayor of Maillezais, she is going to try to recruit people to carry out the dig.

The Traveller and the Mad Architect
In 1834, Maillezais Abbey was owned by a farmer who was in debt and known to be the Abbey's demolisher. Madame Jousseaume, his mother-in-law, urged everyone she met to buy the remaining stones of the abbey. She needs the money to leave and change her life. Then a man raises his hand. He buys everything. He's a mad architect.

Goscelme in pursuit of the Beast of the Marsh - BALUDIK,
Audience: 6-11 years

Cultural agenda 2025 :
Monumental Tour: 4 July
European Heritage Days: 20 and 21 September
Christmas Fair 2025: 5, 6 and 7 December and 10, 12, 13 and 14 December