L'Epau Abbey

This monastic center was founded in 1229 by the widow of Richard Coeur de Lion, Berengaria of Navarre, and forms together with the Abadí of Fontevraud, one of the essential stages of the cultural history of Pays de la Loire. Berengaria of Navarre, now known as the Lady of Le Mans, lies within the walls of this church that is set near the city he loved. The remains of her husband, Ricardo, rest in the royal abbey of Fontevrault. The majesty of this place will delight anyone. Epau Abbey is one of the most complete Cistercian representations and is very striking in France. It is a Christian fortress, an historic-artistic monument buily in 1961.