Are you looking to visit an authentic abbey in Provence? Head to La Roque d'Anthéron to discover Silvacane, one of the three Cistercian sisters of Provence. The site is open every day except Monday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter and 6 p.m. in summer. The entrance fee is €8, with discounts for groups and free admission for under-18s. On the program: fascinating guided tours, contemporary art exhibitions and piano concerts during the famous international festival. Bonus: you can combine this discovery with a stroll through the nearby reed beds, on the banks of the Durance.
The history of the abbey begins in 1144. Monks of the Cistercian order from Morimond chose this isolated location between the Durance and Luberon rivers. The name Silvacane comes from “silva” (forest) and “cana” (reeds), evoking its wild environment at the time.
The history of Silvacane Abbey
Founded in 1144, Silvacane Abbey is one of the oldest abbeys in Provence. The monastery enjoyed its golden age in the 12th century, and its influence extended throughout Provence. The buildings you see today bear witness to this prosperous period. Cistercian art is expressed here in all its purity: sober lines, little decoration, in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature.
The life of the monks was organized according to strict rules: prayer, manual labor and meditation punctuated their days. Silence reigned within the walls, only interrupted by religious services. You can still feel this atmosphere of contemplation as you walk through the cloister or the abbey church.
Architectural features
The architecture of the abbey will impress you with its purity. The buildings rise majestically towards the Provençal sky, built according to Cistercian principles: simplicity and light.
The abbey church will surprise you with its perfect proportions. Its pointed barrel vault rises to a height of over 15 meters. The semicircular arches create a soothing rhythm along the walls. In this church, there is no superfluous decoration: the art lies in the balance of the volumes.
Don't miss the monks' hall, a true architectural masterpiece. It was once used as a scriptorium, where the monks copied and illuminated manuscripts. Its massive columns support surprisingly delicate vaults. Natural light enters through narrow windows, creating an atmosphere conducive to contemplation.
A fascinating detail: observe the capitals. Their sober decoration is limited to plant motifs - acanthus leaves and ferns. This is the distinctive mark of Cistercian architecture, which banned figurative representations deemed too distracting for the monks.
Where is Silvacane Abbey located?
The Abbey of Silvacane is located in the commune of La Roque-d'Anthéron, in the heart of the Bouches-du-Rhône. 35 minutes from Aix-en-Provence, it is easily accessible via the D561 departmental road.
Its name, “Silva Cana” (Latin for “forest of reeds”), takes on its full meaning when you discover its surroundings. The abbey is located between a pine forest and a vast expanse of reeds on the banks of the Durance. This unspoiled natural setting makes it easy to understand why the Cistercian monks chose this isolated location.
To get there from Aix-en-Provence, follow the signs for Luberon. Free parking is available 100 meters from the entrance. Motorhomes are allowed but only during the day. In summer, visit in the morning to enjoy the coolness and avoid the crowds of festival-goers at the International Piano Festival.
Prices and opening hours
The abbey is open every day except Monday. Opening hours vary according to the season. In winter (October to March), it is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In summer (April to September), it closes later at 6 p.m.
Admission prices are as follows:
Full price: €8
Reduced rate (students, unemployed): 6.50€
Free for children up to 12 years old
Group rate (from 20 people): 7€ per person
Guided tours are a real bonus for understanding the history of the place. These guided tours take place every day of opening at 11am and 3pm (duration: 1h15). The ticket for a guided tour costs €3 on top of the entrance fee. In summer, booking is strongly recommended, especially during the Piano Festival.
For families, a game booklet is offered to children with their entrance ticket. Dogs are not allowed, even on a lead, with the exception of guide dogs.
Events at the Abbey
The abbey is not frozen in time! Every year it hosts a rich cultural program that brings its old walls to life. The highlight? The famous La Roque d'Anthéron International Piano Festival in July-August, which transforms the abbey church into an exceptional concert hall.
Events are held throughout the year. Contemporary art exhibitions interact with the medieval architecture. Dance performances and artistic events take over the cloister. In December, don't miss the concerts of sacred music that resonate under the vaults.
Families are not forgotten! During the school holidays, themed treasure hunts allow children to discover the abbey in a fun way. The “Apprentice Builders” afternoons help them understand the construction secrets of the Cistercian monks. In summer, night-time candlelit tours immerse you in the mysterious atmosphere of the place.
A word of advice: check the events calendar on the website before your visit. Some shows are sold out several weeks in advance, especially during the piano festival. Online booking is highly recommended for these special occasions.
Recommended accommodation near the Abbey
Here are the accommodations we recommend that are close to Silvacane Abbey. It is best to stay there the night before your visit so that you can arrive at the opening time and enjoy the beautiful morning light.
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a lovely paved terrace, Hôtel Le Mas De Jossyl is a great choice in La Roque-d'Anthéron. The 28 non-smoking rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a fridge and a kettle. The on-site restaurant serves local specialities. The air-conditioned dining room opens onto the garden.
Located in the countryside of La Roque d'Anthéron, Mas de la Sauline is a guest house with an outdoor swimming pool and steam bath. You can enjoy a game of billiards or table tennis or a pleasant moment in the library. Offering a view of the garden, all the rooms at the Mas de la Sauline are decorated in warm colours and feature wooden floors. They all feature a TV, a sofa and a private bathroom.
Featuring a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a sun terrace, the Eden Roque guest house is located in La Roque d'Anthéron, 15 km from Lourmarin. There is a bar on site. All rooms feature a private bathroom with bathrobes and free toiletries.
There you have it. We hope this article has made you want to discover this superb Provençal abbey and spend a vacation in the region!