Jumièges Abbey is one of the oldest Benedictine monasteries in Normandy. The abbey was founded in 654 by Saint Philibert, courtier of King Dagobert I. In the 11th century, the abbey church of Notre-Dame, the largest Romanesque church in the Duchy of Normandy, was built. During the Hundred Years' War, the monks had to seek shelter in Rouen. In the 17th century, the abbey underwent a spiritual and material renewal. During the French Revolution, the abbey was sold as church property and then used as a quarry.
The rediscovery of the monastery by 19th century romantics put an end to the destruction.
Today, the twin towers, 46 metres high, dominate the remains of the Romanesque building façade and the monastery walls. The park with centenary trees surrounds the abbey, which was described by Victor Hugo as "the most beautiful ruin in France".
