Map

The Romanesque abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou was founded around the year 1000 by Guifred II, Count of the Conflent and Cerdanya. In the heart of the Canigou massif, in a sumptuous setting, it rises towards the sky. In its green setting, this jewel of the first Romanesque art hides a much greater treasure for men and women, young and old, in search of a place to recharge their batteries: the presence of Jesus Christ, who is prayed and adored there.

The Community of the Beatitudes, to whom the Bishop of Perpignan has entrusted this high place since 1988, welcomes all year round the many walkers, tourists and pilgrims, for guided tours and for the liturgy. She also receives people who wish to live a few days of spiritual renewal in order to listen to the One who speaks to the heart.

Saint-Martin-du-Canigou Abbey celebrated its millennium in 2009. Founded at the beginning of the 11th century by the will and action of a large family, it has known its hours of glory and darkness. Thanks to the courage and perseverance of many people in this Catalan land and elsewhere, this important place rose from its ruins at the beginning of the 20th century. Today it remains dedicated to its lifelong vocation: to be a praise to the glory of God.

The Community of the Beatitudes is part of the "new communities" born in the Catholic Church following the Second Vatican Council and in the movement of the Charismatic Renewal. It gathers in its bosom faithful from all walks of life (married or single persons, priests, consecrated brothers and sisters...), eager to share a fraternal life that combines a marked contemplative dimension with many apostolic and missionary activities.

From the initiative of the Community of the Beatitudes, various apostolates have emerged over the years. They have emerged as overflowing with prayer and fraternal life, taking on many faces according to the Church's calls: works of compassion, evangelization, formation, development aid, animation of shrines, etc.

In 1988, the Bishop of Perpignan-Elne entrusted the abbey to the Community of the Beatitudes, with the mission of perpetuating the life of prayer in this place and welcoming the many visitors. The community therefore invites tourists to visit the abbey all year round and welcomes people who wish to spend a few days in retreat.

For information on the visits to the abbey and the possibilities of spiritual welcome, you can click on the links at the bottom of the page.

It is possible to participate in Mass and services with the Community. You will find the schedules by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page. When you arrive at the abbey, you can ring the bell just before the mass or service and we will come and open it for you.

Direct visit