A meeting point of history and architecture ... Symbols of a riche heritage, buildings and monuments take you on a trip through the history of Sables d'Olonne.

NOTRE-DAME CHURCH or 1,000 years of History :

Located in the market town of Olonne sur mer, this is the oldest and was for many years the most important church in the Pays des Sables d’Olonne. It is thought to have been built in 1042.

NOTRE DAME DE BON PORT CHURCH, Les Sables d’Olonne

Located on the site of the Rosaire chapel in the 13th century and a dependency of the parish of Olonne, the church was built in 1646. In the 17th century, Les Sables d’Olonne became a major cod-fishing harbour and the residents asked Richelieu, bishop of Luçon, to create a parish and erect a church. In 1646 the first stone was laid. The Church retains its Gothic appearance, but the western façade is evocative of the Renaissance. One of the rare examples of the Counter-Reform.

 SAINT MARTIN DE VERTOU CHURCH, Ile d’Olonne

It is thought that the original church was built on this site towards 1200. The present chancel dates from the 17th century, but the tower leading to the church bell is deemed to be older. Stunning panoramic views of the marshes guaranteed.

SAINT HILAIRE CHURCH, Le Château d’Olonne

The church is thought to have been built on the remains of a fortress. Although the date of its construction remains a mystery, it was extended under Louis XV. The church is open from 3 to 6 p.m. in July/August. 

 SAINT JEAN D’ORBESTIER ABBEY, Le Château d’Olonne

Built in the 12th century on the orders of the Duke of Aquitaine and the Count of Poitou, William IX, the abbey benefited from the generosity of Richard the Lionheart. It was burnt down several times and eventually destroyed in 1659 during the Religious wars. After being converted into an agricultural enterprise, then sold off as a national good in 1791, the abbey served successively in the 19th and 20th centuries as a seamark for ships, a preventorium, and then a school. Only the church and the 15th century abbey lodge remain standing to this day. The abbey currently provides the venue for cultural events.