Saint-Césaire Convent

Saint-Césaire convent, memory of a great abbey

The Arles audio-guided tour stops you before the arch of Saint-Césaire convent, one of the rare remains of a former and important abbey. It is approached with respect: although the surviving portal dates from the eighteenth century, the history of the place goes back much further.

A famous monastic rule

A first monastery was founded in 512 by the archbishop of Arles, Caesarius. He made himself known by writing a monastic rule for abbesses, which met with great success. His rule was even adopted by Saint Radegund of Poitiers, queen of the Franks. The convent was closed in 1792, sold as national property during the Revolution, then largely destroyed.

What there is to see

The surviving eighteenth-century portal is now one of the last witnesses of this founding abbey. The remaining buildings now host cultural activities, in a quiet district of central Arles. The place invites you to gauge the long spiritual history of the city and the influence of the rule of Saint Caesarius.

Practical information

Saint-Césaire convent is in the centre of Arles, towards the Roquette district. The buildings host cultural activities according to their own schedule; opening times may vary. The portal and the surroundings can be seen from the street.

Who was Saint Caesarius?

Caesarius was archbishop of Arles and founder, in 512, of a monastery. He wrote a monastic rule for abbesses, which met with great success and was adopted by Saint Radegund.

What remains of the convent?

Closed in 1792 and largely destroyed, the convent retains only rare remains, including an eighteenth-century portal. The remaining buildings host cultural activities.