Lagny Abbey

Lagny Abbey, or Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Lagny as it is known in its native tongue, stands as a testament to centuries of French religious and cultural history. Nestled in the charming commune of Lagny-sur-Marne, just east of Paris, this venerable site has witnessed the ebb and flow of history since its founding in 644 AD. With its rich tapestry of stories and architectural evolution, Lagny Abbey offers a fascinating journey through time for any visitor.

The Genesis of Lagny Abbey

The origins of Lagny Abbey trace back to the 7th century when Saint Fursey, an Irish monk, established the monastery at the behest of Erchinoald, the mayor of the palace of Burgundy. This early foundation quickly garnered the attention and support of notable figures such as Clovis II, the king of Neustria, and his wife, Queen Bathild, who was later canonized. Their generous donations helped elevate the abbey's status and secured its place in the annals of history.

However, the tranquility of the abbey was not to last. In the 9th century, Norman invaders reduced the monastery to ruins. It wasn't until the efforts of Herbert II and Stephen I, Counts of Meaux, that the abbey was resurrected between 990 and 1018. The newly rebuilt church was consecrated in 1019 by Leotheric, Archbishop of Sens, and dedicated to Saint Peter, Saint Paul, and the Holy Innocents.

Relics and Royal Connections

Lagny Abbey's connection to royalty is further highlighted by the gifts it received from King Robert II of France. Among these treasures were a thorn from the Crown of Thorns and a Holy Nail from the Crucifixion of Jesus. Unfortunately, these precious relics were lost during the French Wars of Religion in 1567 when Calvinists pillaged the abbey.

Throughout its history, Lagny Abbey played host to several notable figures. Pope Paschal II visited in 1107, and Pope Innocent II followed suit in 1131. The abbey was also home to Anselm of Gembloux, who served as the headmaster of its ecclesiastical school before becoming Abbot of Gembloux in 1115.

Miracles and Legends

Lagny Abbey is not just a place of historical significance but also one of legend and miracle. One of the most captivating stories involves Joan of Arc, who visited the village twice. During her second visit in 1430, she is said to have performed a miracle by raising a three-day-old child from the dead. This miraculous event was later considered in her canonization process. Joan herself recounted the episode during her trial at Rouen, describing how the child, lifeless for three days, yawned three times and was baptized before passing away once more.

The Abbey Church: Notre-Dame des Ardents

The abbey church, known today as Notre-Dame des Ardents et Saint-Pierre, has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. In the 11th and 12th centuries, the church was plagued by fires, leading to several rounds of reconstruction. The most significant rebuilding efforts took place in 1686 and again in 1750, resulting in the church we see today.

The church's name, Notre-Dame des Ardents, or Our Lady of the Ardents, has its roots in the 12th-century outbreaks of ergotism, also known as Saint Anthony's Fire. The afflicted prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary for relief, and from that time, the church has been associated with this name.

From Revolution to Restoration

The French Revolution brought dramatic changes to Lagny Abbey. In 1792, the revolutionary regime decreed that each commune could have only one church, leading to the closure of the other churches in Lagny. The abbey church was briefly renamed after Saint Fursey before becoming a Temple of Reason during the height of the revolution's anti-religious fervor.

After the revolution, the abbey's buildings were seized and repurposed. The monastery became a military hospital and later, in 1842, the offices of the municipality. Despite these changes, the church has remained a place of worship and was classed as a national monument in 1886, with the rest of the monastery buildings following suit in 1969.

Modern-Day Lagny Abbey

Today, Lagny Abbey stands as a symbol of resilience and historical continuity. The church, now known as Abbatiale Notre-Dame-des-Ardents et Saint-Pierre, continues to serve the local community while attracting visitors from near and far. Its storied past, architectural beauty, and the legends that surround it make Lagny Abbey a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of French history.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply a curious traveler, Lagny Abbey offers a unique glimpse into the past. Its walls echo with the stories of saints, kings, and miracles, inviting you to step back in time and experience the legacy of this remarkable site.