Founded around 1066-1067 and staffed first by canons, then from 1147 by Benedictines from the abbey of Bec, Saint-Hymer became in the 18th century a Jansenist center nicknamed the Port-Royal of Normandy. Its last prior bought it at the Revolution, which kept it intact. It was a retirement home until 2020.
What it needs
The priory buildings, two cloister galleries, press house and gatehouse stand empty in a walled park of more than five hectares and need complete renovation. A permit to convert it into a five-star hotel was granted in April 2025. A buyer with other intentions could keep it as a place of prayer and retreat.
Before you act. The listing shows no date, so confirm it is still available, and gives no restoration cost. The priory church is the parish church and does not appear to be part of the sale.
The whole complex is for sale and must be restored from top to bottom; the estate agent describes it as 'à réhabiliter entièrement'. It is the cheapest monastic building found in France: the price of a flat buys a protected 17th-century convent with its cloister and chapel choir. A buyer could return it to religious use or simply keep it standing.
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.
