Priory of Villiers

In 1317, the structure of the Order of Grandmont was reorganised, resulting in the grouping of its priories and a reduction in their number. As a consequence of this reform, Villiers received members from other suppressed houses, allowing the formation of a larger community of around thirty monks. However, by the mid-fourteenth century, the political crisis and the conflicts that affected the region brought the priory into decline and led to a significant reduction in the size of the community. This situation worsened with the introduction of commendatory priors, and the decline continued over the following centuries.

Part of the former priory church survives. It displayed the usual characteristics of the order: a single-vessel nave covered with a vault and terminating in an eastern apse. The present building has lost this apse. The cloister was located on the south side and has now disappeared, although its location remains identifiable. To the east of this area survive, albeit heavily altered, the structures of the chapter house and the cellar, with the dormitory occupying the upper floor. The refectory and kitchen stood to the south. The buildings of the western range have disappeared.