"Lucelle - I seem to remember reading that name in a book about Cistercian abbeys. I decide to go there, not really sure whether it is in Switzerland or France. In fact, I discover that the European meeting centre is in France and the former abbey straddles the border. Although the place is steeped in history, it must be said that there isn't much for the uninitiated to see here. All the same, I take the chance to enjoy a nice walk around the lake, which looks wonderful on this fine spring day."
Juliette
Info
Cistercian abbey
Lucelle, where you will find a few traces of a former Cistercian abbey, is situated in the peaceful valley of the Lucelle river, surrounded by forests. Around the lake, only a few walls bear witness to the buildings of the former monastery. The arch of a doorway, a fountain and the country house of the abbot Delfils cannot truly convey how the abbey once looked. A statue in the garden of the monastery preserves the memory of St. Bernard, recalling the origin of the foundation of Lucelle. The abbey came into being because of the impression that the world-famous abbey of Citeau in Burgundy made on the people in the 12th century. St. Bernard himself blessed the first stone and the spring of the new abbey, in which twelve monks came to dwell. Until 1790, Lucelle played an important role and was the most famous Cistercian abbey for many miles around.
Good to know
A path accessible to wheelchairs allows everyone to tour the shores of the lake. Allow about 45 minutes for the walk.
Jura Tourisme
Place de la Gare
2800 Delémont
T. +41 (0) 32 420 47 71
F. +41 (0) 32 420 47 81
