Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy

The Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy, nestled in the charming town of Poissy in the Yvelines department of France, is a historical gem that beckons visitors with its rich past and architectural splendor. This former Dominican monastery, founded in the 14th century, offers a captivating journey through time, revealing tales of royal patronage, religious devotion, and turbulent history.

The Origins of Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy

The story of the Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy begins with King Philip IV of France, also known as Philip the Fair. In honor of his grandfather, Saint Louis, who was canonized in 1297, Philip decided to establish a monastery dedicated to the newly sainted king. Poissy, the birthplace and baptismal site of Saint Louis, was chosen as the location for this grand endeavor. The construction began in the early 14th century, with the foundation letters issued in July 1304.

The monastery quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the wealthiest in France. Its church, dedicated to Saint Louis, housed an invaluable treasure trove of liturgical and secular objects. The inauguration of the church was a grand affair, attended by twenty-two bishops and two archbishops, underscoring its significance.

The Monastic Life

King Philip IV entrusted the monastery to young Dominican novices from across his kingdom, appointing Marie de Bourbon-Clermont as the first prioress. Initially, the community comprised 120 nuns, which later grew to 200. These nuns were expected to be literate, musically talented, of good morals, and noble birth. During Philip IV's reign, no one could enter the monastery without his permission. After his death, commoners required royal authorization to join the community.

The nuns were supported by five Dominican fathers who handled spiritual guidance and the celebration of the office. Additionally, the monastery staff included lay brothers, a business manager, a doctor, a surgeon, a master gardener, and numerous domestic workers. The monastery's domain spanned over 48 hectares, including 14 hectares of buildings. It featured a royal residence, extensive gardens, and two fishponds, creating a serene and self-sufficient environment.

A Center of Wealth and Influence

The Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy was not just a religious institution but also a significant economic entity. The nuns possessed lands, including a portion of the Louvre, which generated substantial income. The monastery was exempt from various taxes and duties, further enhancing its financial stability. Families of the nuns often contributed considerable dowries, adding to the monastery's wealth.

In 1382, a salt granary was established for the benefit of the monastery. The nuns also obtained the right to use a public seal in the Châtel-en-Brie provostship, whose revenues belonged to them. The maintenance of the monastery complex was a costly affair, amounting to 58,030 livres and 10 sous in 1706.

Historical Events and Turbulence

The Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy witnessed several significant historical events. In 1346, King Edward III of England set up his headquarters here before crossing the Seine to Flanders. His son, the Black Prince, later ravaged Poissy, setting the town ablaze. The monastery also played a role in the colloquy of Poissy in 1561, a religious conference held in its refectory.

The 17th century brought scandal and reform to the monastery. In 1602, King Henry IV visited to present his goddaughter, Louise de Gondi, and was captivated by the beauty of a nun named Louise de Maupeou. Allegations of improper conduct among the nuns led to their exile. Despite efforts to restore order, including interventions by Pope Urban VIII, the monastery's reputation suffered.

The Decline and Legacy

The French Revolution marked the beginning of the end for the Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy. The monastery was evacuated in 1792 and subjected to looting. The local commune, unable to maintain both the priory church and the collegiate church of Notre-Dame, chose to preserve the latter as the parish church. The priory church was abandoned, and the monastery was sold and dismantled, except for the gatehouse, which now houses the Toy Museum.

The Priory Church of Saint-Louis

The priory church, dedicated in 1331, was an architectural marvel. Its vaults soared to 30 meters, and its bell tower surpassed that of the collegiate church of Notre-Dame. The church, built in the shape of a Latin cross with three naves and ribbed vaults, was a testament to Gothic design. It featured a polygonal spire, long-pitched roofs, and intricate woodwork covered in lead. The altar was traditionally believed to be located on the site of Saint Louis's birth.

The church housed numerous statues, including those of Saint Louis, his wife Marguerite of Provence, and their six children. Some of these statues are now preserved in the Cluny Museum in Paris. The choir boasted a magnificent altarpiece adorned with over a hundred bas-reliefs, donated by John, Duke of Berry. This altarpiece, now in the Louvre, depicts scenes from the lives of Christ, Saint John the Baptist, and Saint John the Evangelist.

Despite suffering damage from a lightning strike in 1695, which caused the collapse of its vaults and roofs, the church remained a symbol of the monastery's former glory. Today, the Prieuré Saint-Louis de Poissy stands as a poignant reminder of a bygone era, inviting visitors to explore its storied past and appreciate its enduring legacy.