Founded in 937 by Saint Odon, abbot of Cluny, the Abbey of Saint-Vincent de Chantelle is located in the Auvergne region of France.
With its Romanesque church and cloister, this Benedictine abbey sits in one of the most beautiful landscapes of Bourbonnais. In this peaceful setting, the Benedictine nuns create high-quality cosmetic products as part of their daily work.
Let's explore the abbey's history, its community, and its craft.
Early Origins of the Abbey of Saint-Vincent de Chantelle
The origins of Chantelle go back to the fifth century. At the top of a hill approximately 1000 feet above sea level, a castle and a church dedicated to Saint Vincent were built. Monastic life did not begin here until around five centuries later, when the property was given to the Canons of Saint Augustine.
Over the centuries, the abbey welcomed many significant historical figures, in part due to its strategic location near an old Roman road linking Clermont and Bourges. Notable moments include:
- In the eighth century, Pepin the Short, King of the Franks, seized the castle.
- In the late 13th century, Aymar de Cros, Bishop of Clermont, was crowned there.
- In the 15th century, the Duke of Bourbon rebuilt much of the site.
- In the 16th century, Anne de Beaujeu, daughter of King Louis XI and Regent of France, lived there until her death.
Times of Difficulty for the Abbey
In 1638, Cardinal Richelieu ordered the destruction of the castle, suspecting it was being used as a refuge for opponents of the king. Fortunately, the priory itself survived.
Over time, the original community dwindled and was replaced by Jesuits in the 17th century, who brought new life to the abbey. Their presence, however, lasted only about a century. During the French Revolution, the abbey was sold as national property, bringing an end to monastic life that had endured for eight centuries.
The Return of Monastic Life
After the upheavals of the Revolution, the Bishop of Moulins sought to restore religious life at Chantelle. In 1853, Benedictine nuns from Pradines Abbey arrived and rebuilt and renewed the monastery. Their efforts were successful, and the abbey was eventually designated a historic monument.
The Abbey Today
Today, Chantelle Abbey is home to around 10 Benedictine nuns. They follow the Rule of Saint Benedict, balancing prayer and manual labor.
The sisters participate in seven daily liturgical offices, welcome pilgrims traveling to Compostela, and work with their hands to make numerous monastic cosmetics. They also operate a guesthouse for those seeking rest and spiritual renewal.
A Tradition of Monastic Craftsmanship
In the mid-20th century, Pope Pius XII encouraged women's monasteries to develop sustainable craft-based work, known as monastic handicraft.
In 1954, the sisters of Chantelle began producing handmade cosmetic products. Their first creations included eau de Cologne and cleansing milk, and the work quickly flourished.
The sisters now maintain their own laboratory and collaborate with several lay employees. The project continues under the guidance of Mother Pascale, who oversees production and ensures the quality of their products.
How to Purchase Chantelle Abbey Products
The abbey produces soaps, bubble baths, shower gels, and other cosmetic items. Visitors can purchase them directly at the abbey:
Abbaye Saint-Vincent de Chantelle
14 Rue Anne de Beaujeu
03140 Chantelle, France
Visitors are also welcome to pray in the Romanesque church and greet the sisters. For those unable to travel, the products are also available through the Divine Box online monastic shop.