This imposing Laon abbey was built in the early 12th century, and Saint Norbert de Xanten installed 12 Prémontré canons. Basing its wealth mainly on vineyards, the abbey enjoyed great influence in medieval times. Today, you can still see the former abbot’s dwelling (closed to visitors), a pleasure pavilion known as the “vide-bouteilles”, and the cloister leading to the Suzanne-Martinet Library in Laon. Still visible inside the abbey church are a superb set of 18th-century wood panelling, two recumbent figures (including that of Jeanne de Flandre, wife of Enguerrand IV de Coucy), and a 14th-century crib recently rediscovered near the choir.
Please note the opening hours of the Saint-Martin abbey church this year:
– every Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 6pm (in May and June)
– and daily from 2pm to 6pm (July to September)