A must-see
article | Reading time3 min
The abbey's public toilets will be closed for repairs on 15 May 2025. Thank you for your understanding.
For the cistercians, the workmanship of the stone and the harmony of the volumes were above all at the service of the expression of their faith. Singing was of great importance, as it gave rhythm to the hours and days of their lives. This dimension of sound has become one of the major characteristics of Le Thoronet Abbey!
Just as light plays an essential role in cistercian spirituality, sound and its reverberation within the abbey church create a particular acoustics that was probably studied by the roman architects.
The empirical knowledge of these master builders enabled them to control the proportions to such an extent that the abbey church is comparable to a musical instrument magnifying the sounds.
Even today, this resonance contributes greatly to the influence and reputation of Le Thoronet abbey. Music blends perfectly with the stones, giving you the chance to experience some special moments, whether during a visit with a singing demonstration or a musical evening.
Our concerts and workshops highlighting these rare acoustics are just waiting for you to come along!
©Nathalie Perrot / Centre des monuments nationaux
