The Val de Bénédiction Charterhouse was founded in 1356 by Pope Innocent VI (d. 1362), who is buried in the abbey church. With its 40 cells and three cloisters, it was once the most important Carthusian monastery in France and it is still the largest.

Today, the charterhouse provides shelter to aspiring playwrights and artists rent-free for up to a year. Art exhibitions are presented throughout the year.

The largest cloister at the Val de Bénédiction Charterhouse, Cloître Saint Jean, give you a good idea of the architecture and layout of the charterhouse.

In the 14th century church, the delicately carved mausoleum of Pope Innocent VI is an extraordinary example of Gothic artisanship. It was removed in the Revolution and only returned in 1963. A chapel contains the 1453 masterpiece Coronation of the Virgin by Enguerrand Charonton; its depiction of hell is Bosch-like in its horror.

Quick Facts on Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction

Site Information
Names:	Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction
Categories:	monasteries
Visitor and Contact Information
Coordinates:	43.966259° N, 4.796468° E
Address:	Villeneuve-lés-Avignon, France
Lodging:	View hotels near Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

More Information

• Photos of Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction - here on Sacred Destinations