Saint-Sulpice-la-Forêt is a town of Ille-et-Vilaine in Brittany, 15 km northeast of Rennes.
Implantation in the twelfth century of the Abbey of Our Lady of the Nest-Blackbird, whose religious rules such as architecture is inspired from those of its "parent", Fontevraud Abbey (in current Maine-et-Loire), has marked the history and physiognomy of the town. Besides the remains of the abbey estate, the historic center of the village is still marked by testimonies (halls, laundry) related to this monastic power also enjoyed all manorial powers.
As its name attests, the territory of Saint-Sulpice-la-Forêt, large 6 sq km, partly cleared by the monks, still green and forest (wood Fayel south, Rennes Forest to the east).
Having experienced a net population growth in recent decades (some 1,300 inhabitants against 700 in early 1980), due to the proximity of the city of Rennes, the town has retained a special heritage that warrants a visit. Hiking enthusiasts will be seduced!
Most of the village's heritage is linked to the old abbey founded in 1116: its singular name (Our Lady of the Merle's Nest) would originate the story of a shepherd who discovered nearby a statuette of the Virgin in a nest of robin... Although she was repeatedly looted or destroyed during various conflicts and rebuilt, many of its relics dot the territory.
The original abbey church, in Romanesque style, has retained some of its walls: the south transept is thus almost intact. perfection is observed of the equipment, while the simplicity but the harmony of decoration are characteristic of Romanesque art in Britain. The assembly is open air but the impression is monumental... The site is free to access (via the path along the road from Liffré).
See also, the gatehouse which dates from the fifteenth century, decorated with a sundial and weapons carved and especially the Notre-Dame-sur-also called Water St. Mary-of-the Pond (XII and fifteenth), rebuilt after the hundred years war by an abbess. Note sculptures of ivy leaves, vines and human figures that appear on the arches of the door and its columns and on the ledge. A richer ornamentation than that of the abbey.
also linked to the abbey, the old communal mill in beautifully carved door (XV), the halls of the seventeenth, the former prison (XVI) or inn dedicated to religious families are located on the town, where is observed strongly reworked buildings but whose primary purpose was monastery or manor...
All of which make the charm of the village, not to mention the paved path connecting the hall to the old abbey.
Finally, we must mention the Saint-Sulpice church which dates from the late twelfth century, when the village around the abbey was elevated to parish. The style is already Gothic. An altarpiece and a Madonna and child are particularly sheltered there.
Most sites are open access and on time, particularly during Heritage Days, a local association offers guided tours (information on +33 2 99 66 20 05).
Besides a multi-sports field and playgrounds, in terms of "natural" leisure, several hiking trails (hiking, mountain biking or horse) are plotted and marked the territory or including the ancient abbey site, or forays into the forest plots managed and managed by the NFB. Maps and information +33 2 99 66 23 63 or +33 8 91 67 35 35.
