The Augustinian chapter of Notre-Dame de Montsalvy was founded around 1050 by Gausbert of Montsalvy (venerated as a saint, †1081), who had also founded Saint-Michel de Laussac and took part in the unsuccessful attempt to reform the canonry of Saint-Amans de Rodez (both in Aveyron).
In addition to the monastic buildings, the site included a hospice to accommodate travellers. For the foundation of Montsalvy, Gausbert received the support of Bérenger (†1096), viscount of Rodez, who provided the land for its establishment. Gausbert himself served as the first abbot or provost, a role later held by Bernard (also venerated as a saint, c. 1040-1110). In 1193, Pope Celestine III confirmed the canonry’s possessions and rights.
Over time, probably in the 15th century, as the village developed around the collegiate, the church also took on parochial functions. In 1764 it was transformed into a secular collegiate church, and its canons ceased to be regulars, a situation that lasted until the Revolution. Today the church is still preserved, albeit much altered, along with some conventual buildings. The cloister has disappeared, but the chapter house and the refectory remain.
Christ (12th-13th century)
Reliquary of Saint Bernard, second abbot
Chapter house
Chapter house
Chapter house
Refectory
Refectory
Refectory
- AUBERT, R. (1984). Dictionnaire d'histoire et de géographie ecclésiastiques. Vol. 20. París: Letouzey et Ané
- AVEYRON (1844). Annuaire statistique et administratif du département de l'Aveyron. Rodez: Ratery
- BEAUNIER, Dom (1912). Abbayes et prieurés de l'ancienne France. Vol. 5: Bourges. Abbaye de Ligugé
- GUÉRIN, Paul (1888). Les Petits Bollandistes. Vies des saints. Vol. 6. París: Bloud et Barral
- MURATET, G. (1991 ed.). Histoire de Montsalvy. París: Res Universis
Montsalvy is located south of Aurillac, on the road to Rodez (Aveyron)