Founded in the 7th century and nestled in the heart of Seine-Maritime, the Abbey of Saint-Wandrille continues to write its history today. Having disappeared several decades ago, the East wing will be rebuilt respecting the 17th-century dimensions, under the direction of Eiffage Construction, the consortium's representative.
The ceremony began with the blessing of the foundation stone in the abbey church, in the presence of the Benedictine community of Saint-Wandrille de Fontenelle, the sproject's sponsor, as well as the partners and teams involved. Guests then had the opportunity to tour the construction site before gathering for a social event at the Saint-Fiacre cart shed, opposite the work site.
The project is being led by Eiffage Construction (lead contractor), Pradeau Morin, Normandie Rénovation, Métiers du Bois, and CRAM SAS. The teams are responsible for:
• The reconstruction of the missing bays exactly as they were, using fine materials such as cut stone.
• The restoration of the five adjoining northern bays, by consolidating the existing structures and reviving the architectural details.
• The interior layout of the different levels, creating spaces adapted to the needs of the monastic community, while enhancing the architectural heritage.
• Creating smooth circulation for people with reduced mobility, in order to make the abbey accessible to all.
Beyond the technical aspects of the work, this project incorporates a particular focus on the environment of the site: preservation of the Fontenelle stream, protection of century-old trees and consideration of the archaeological remains present on site will guide the 26 months of work.
This operation mobilizes exceptional skills: stonemasons, carpenters, art restorers and local craftsmen combine their expertise to restore full coherence to this remarkable heritage site.
Work began on September 1st and delivery is scheduled for November 2027.
A huge congratulations to our teams for this magnificent project !
Client: Benedictine Community of Saint-Wandrille de Fontenelle;
Project Management: Pierre Bortolussi & Associates, Philippe Schiellein, CIPB, ACTIF, Cabinet ECOVI, Impédance Ingénierie; Consortium: Eiffage Construction (lead contractor), Pradeau Morin, Normandie Rénovation, Métiers du Bois, CRAM SAS
