Founded in 1101 by the hermit priest Robert d' Arbrissel, the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud was unusual in that it received both men and women into its community.

The Plantagent King Henry II, his Queen Eleanor of Aquataine and their children Richard the Lionhearted and his sister Joan were all buried at Fontevraud.

After the French Revolution ended convent life in 1792 it was converted into one of the most notorious prisons in France, with up to 1750 inmates. ... (more)