The Breuil-Bellay is the most complete and best preserved priory of the monastic order of Grandmont of those who survive in Anjou . It was founded around 1209 by Giraud III Berlay, seigneur of Montreuil-Bellay who gave the forests near Cizay to the religious of the order of Grandmont. It was at this time that the church, dedicated to Our Lady, was built. Classified as a historical monument in 1963, it is remarkable for the size of its nave and the simplicity of its architecture. Adjacent to the cemetery passage, which is also a listed cemetery, the chapter house, whose construction, contemporary with that of the church, is one of the most harmonious of Grandmontane architecture. In the 17th century, a large stone altarpiece was erected above the main altar of the chapel, thanks to the talent of the Manceau sculptor Pierre Biardeau.
Guided tour by the owner of the oldest parts, all built at the beginning of the 13th century: large priory chapel, passage of the cemetery, chapter room (and its incredible vault "in umbrella", porticum.)
A departure is scheduled at the beginning of each hour.
Visitors arriving during the guided tour will be able to wait for the beginning of the next visit by attending the screening of a film entitled: "Bonshommes de Grandmont" dedicated to the presentation of the eponymous monastic order.
They can also linger under the Porticum in front of the permanent exhibition on the same subject, but more focused on the history and architecture of the priory.
During the visit of the chapter room, visitors will be able to contemplate the works of the visual artist Anne LEVILLAIN.
For children, an educational daycare will be proposed with, for support, a meeting with the owners' animals, a donkey, a sheep and chickens (contribution to the cost 2,-€)
At the end of the Saturday afternoon visits, weather permitting, visitors can picnic on the lawns of the park.
Access: 8kms south of Saumur: from the Saumur ring road, take the road to Cholet/ Doué la Fontaine (D960). At the third roundabout, immediately turn right towards Cizay-La-Madeleine. At the exit of the hamlet of Igné, take the red bridge on your left. At 200m, immediately after a small wood, an alley of lime trees on your left leads to the priory of Breuil-Bellay.