The towers of the Mont St. Éloi Abbey are located in the commune of Mont-Saint-Éloi, in the Pas-de-Calais department. Founded by Saint Vindicien, the abbey was destroyed following its sale as national property in 1793. The ruins are now a historical monument, retaining the facade of the abbey church that was reconstructed in the 18th century and then demolished in the early 19th century and during the First World War.
The abbey is situated on a high point that dominates the surrounding countryside and offers a view towards Arras. In 1477, Louis XI installed his army there during the siege of Arras. Later, in 1654, Le Grand Condé established his headquarters there until he was dislodged by Turenne.
Today, only the two towers of the western facade remain. Originally standing at 53 meters, these towers were reduced to 44 meters after artillery fire during the First World War, when they were used as observation posts. The site also retains a visible enclosure wall.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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