Monastery of the Immaculate Conception, Rouen, France

What it is

The Benedictines of the Blessed Sacrament have lived since 1802 in a 17th-century monastery in the center of Rouen, known for its Magdala biscuits; it is the last inhabited convent of contemplative nuns in the city.

What it needs

After emergency work on a cracked façade in 2015 and the restoration of façades and roofs, the association Batificat is now replacing all the windows to cut energy use, starting with those on the rue Bourg-l'Abbé, and creating six social-housing flats.

Before you act. The Fondation des Monastères also holds a dedicated works fund for this monastery.

Sources

Last checked 9 November 2026. Responsible body: Fondation du patrimoine (with the association Batificat).

Other houses to consider

Saint-Nicolas-lès-Cîteaux, France

Cîteaux Abbey

The Définitoire was damaged by fire in the 19th century, is largely disused and is described by the Fondation du patrimoine as in a state of peril; walls and roof come first. Once saved it is to house a study and research center holding the archives of the order, plus exhibition space. Works began in March 2025 and the donation drive is under half way to its target.

Status: Appeal open
Works cost: €8m
Community: In residence
Order: Trappist
Founded: 1098

Le Mont-Dieu, France

Charterhouse of Mont-Dieu

On the morning of 2 November 2025 a fire gutted the main building, leaving only walls and a few vaults and destroying the original timber roof and painted beams. The owners first need to protect the exposed masonry, then rebuild frame and roof. Insurance is capped, so the Fondation du patrimoine opened an emergency collection.

Status: Appeal open
Works cost: €7m
Community: No resident community
Order: Carthusian
Founded: 1132