This imposing abbey of Laon was built at the beginning of the 12th century, and Saint Norbert installed 12 regular canons of Prémontré there.
Basing its wealth notably on the exploitation of the vineyards of the upper town, this abbey will know a great influence in the medieval period. Today, the former abbey residence (closed to visitors), a pleasure pavilion called “vide-bouteilles”, and the cloister giving access to the Laon Library remain.
Inside the abbey church, a superb set of 18th century woodwork, 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 are still visible.
Ensemble abbatial Saint-Martin
