The Scriptorium

The dimensions of this room are impressive. It is 36,80 m long and its architecture is Roman though the use of rib vaulting can be noticed. The scriptorium is divided into three naves with two series of five columns. The use of rib vaulting makes it a representative and prestigious vestige of early Gothic style.

In the scriptorium the monks were used to work and transcribed manuscripts. The severe atmosphere of this room shows the Cistercian principles. We can imagine the monks working at their manuscripts and illuminating them.

Next to the scriptorium there was the warming room where a fire was lit so that the monks could warm up their hands and above all make sure the ink didn't freeze.

Under the scriptorium there is a crypt which was actually used as a storeroom for food or as a cellar. The entrance to the crypt is particularly interesting from an architectural point of view.

After the French Revolution the scriptorium was changed into a weaving factory.

During the First World War the Germans opened up the facade so that their tanks could get in.

Decades of renovation have given to this room a new lease of life.

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