Saint-André-le-Bas Church

The church of Saint-Andre-le-Bas

A contemplative stop on the Vienne audio-guided tour, this large church, more precisely a former abbey, was originally built in the sixth or seventh century. It is among the oldest places of worship in the city.

A men's abbey

When it was founded, the abbey of Saint-Andre-le-Haut, led by nuns, already existed, while Saint-Andre-le-Bas was led by men. Entirely rebuilt in the tenth century, then enlarged and embellished in the twelfth, it became one of the most important churches in Vienne, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its Romanesque cloister dates from this period.

What to see

Over the centuries, chapels were added. The Hundred Years' War, then the wars of religion, weakened the convent, whose monks became ever fewer, until the abbey merged with other monasteries in the 1770s. Admire its Romanesque cloister and its architecture, in respect for the place.

Practical information

The church and cloister of Saint-Andre-le-Bas are in the historic centre of Vienne. The cloister can be visited; days, hours and prices should be checked depending on the season with the city museums.

What is the difference between Saint-Andre-le-Bas and le-Haut ?

Saint-Andre-le-Bas was an abbey led by men, while Saint-Andre-le-Haut was led by nuns.

What can be admired today ?

Its twelfth-century Romanesque cloister and its architecture blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.