Abbey of Solesmes

abbey, Solesmes, France

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July 23, 2026

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The Abbey of Solesmes is a Benedictine monastery located in the village of Solesmes, in Sarthe, France. Founded in 1010, it is renowned for its role in reforming plainsong, a style of unisonous music used in Christian church services.1

Benedictines are members of Roman Catholic monastic congregations who follow the rule of St. Benedict. While each monastery is autonomous, they share a common spiritual heritage. The Abbey of Solesmes, after several periods of exile, re-established itself in its current location in 1922. The monks there are dedicated to the celebration of the liturgy.21

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Benedictine
Foundations, including Solesmes, with its emphasis on the celebration of the liturgy, arose throughout Europe; monks and nuns returned to England; congregations were established in North and South America; and monasteries scattered all over the world. In the face of this revival, Pope Leo XIII desired to…
Read More
Foundations, including Solesmes, with its emphasis on the celebration of the liturgy, arose throughout Europe; monks and nuns returned to England; congregations were established in North and South America; and monasteries scattered all over the world. In the face of this revival, Pope Leo XIII desired to…
Read More