In 1278, the Dominicans became interested in establishing a convent in Saint-Sever, where they had to overcome the opposition of the local Benedictine monastery, which sought to preserve its rights and influence over the town. For this new foundation, they received the support of Edward I of England (1239–1307) and his wife Eleanor of Castile (1241–1290), who were also Dukes of Aquitaine.
Other benefactors contributed land and funding, and during the Chapter of Carcassonne in 1282, the foundation of the convent was formalized, integrating it into the Dominican Province of Toulouse. After being looted in 1441 during the Hundred Years’ War, the convent was assaulted in 1569 during the Wars of Religion. Some friars lost their lives, while others managed to escape. In the 17th century, the convent was completely rebuilt, resulting in the loss of much of the remaining medieval structures.
The convent was suppressed in 1791 during the French Revolution. Subsequently, it housed various activities, including a school, a hospital, and a market. Today, it is managed by the town council as a cultural center and hosts the Musée d’art et d’histoire du Cap de Gascogne. It retains the structure of the 14th-century conventual church, along with the cloister and 17th-century annexed buildings.
Illustration from Gallia Dominicana
- DOUAIS, Célestin (1885). Les Frères prêcheurs en Gascogne au XIIIe et au XIVe siècle. Chapitres, couvents et notices. París: Champion
- ROHAULT DE FLEURY, Georges (1903). Gallia Dominicana. Les couvents de St. Dominique au Moyen Âge. Vol. 2. París
- TAUZIN, Camille (1914-1916). Saint-Sever, cap de Gascogne. Bulletin de la Société de Borda, vols. 34-40
The Dominican convent of Saint-Sever is located in the town centre, south of Mont-de-Marsan