In the center of Morienval lies the Parc de l'abbaye de Morienval. The park was classified as a picturesque protected site by a decree dated March 12, 1962, covers 4.73 hectares, and extends south and east of the Romanesque abbey church.
Those who choose Morienval as a destination can combine their stay with plans to rent a holiday apartment.
Culture and History
The former Benedictine priory of Saint-Nicolas de Courson in Morienval was refounded in the 12th century under Louis VII; it is classified as a historic monument and has been protected since June 7, 1905. The complex retains a gabled façade with a large pointed arch, toruses and slender columns with capitals, narrow buttresses, and a remarkable foliage cornice.
The Abbatiale de Morienval is a historic Romanesque church with three bell towers and sculpted details. It is open for individual visits from May to September; guided tours can be arranged throughout the year on request. Free parking and toilets are available at the abbey church.
Exploring the Area
For mountain biking tours, the route La forêt de Retz et la vallée de l'Automne is designated as a circular route. The stated duration is 5 hours 15 minutes, the ascent includes 630 meters of elevation gain, and trails account for 50 percent of the route. The 65-kilometer gravel route La forêt de Retz et la vallée de l'Automne also passes through Morienval, passing by the abbey church there.
The circular route Clochers en vallée de l'Automne is 13.5 kilometers long and can be completed on foot or by mountain bike. The stated times are 3 hours 20 minutes on foot and 1 hour by mountain bike. The route follows the winding, deeply incised valley of the Automne near Morienval and is characterized by numerous washhouses. One section runs through Morienval along Rue de l’Abreuvoir and then in the direction of the abbey church.
Events
The annual festival « Le Printemps des Lavoirs » makes use of Morienval's washhouse heritage for cultural programs featuring concerts, exhibitions, guided walks, and theatrical performances. It usually takes place from May to June.
More local pages: Hannaches, La Neuville-Roy, Gouvieux, Autrêches, Thiers-Sur-Thève, Lachelle, Villembray, Martincourt
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