Feast of Saint Leonard

Where the sensory experience of the Profane meets the Sacred

Rooted in the Christian origins of Avranches, the Saint-Léonard Priory takes shape in the 11th century when the Benedictines place it under the patronage of Saint Léonard, a European figure of liberation. In 1087, William the Conqueror entrusted the estate of Vains to the Abbey of Saint-Étienne of Caen, making the site a structuring place on the outskirts of Mont-Saint-Michel, on a major pilgrimage route.
Nearly a thousand years later, this heritage continues through three days of celebrations blending heritage, spirituality, and creation. The event brings together participants from many nationalities around the Via Angelica, linking Apulia to Mont-Saint-Michel, and highlights the European dimension of the cult of Saint Léonard, particularly through the presence of relics and delegations from Italy.

Program
- Opening in Avranches with a view of the bay
- Workshops (iconography, calligraphy, sculpture, singing) and botanical walk
- Show on Saint Léonard and Normandy
- Lunch of pre-salted lamb
- Ostensions of the relics and procession to Saint-Léonard de Vains
- Crossing the mudflats to Mont-Saint-Michel
- Activities at the Mont: choirs, shows, conferences, testimonies
- Evenings of traditional European songs
- Veneration of the relics with the Gregorian Choir of Paris
- Arrival of the relic of Saint Michael from Monte Gargano (Foggia)
- Requiem for William the Conqueror at the abbey
- Inauguration of the frescoes of the priory
- Twinning with the Abbey of San Leonardo di Siponto (Apulia)

An experience blending living history, cultural practices, and a collective dimension.

Practical information:
All audiences
Paid

Contact

Cooperation Southern Italy / United Kingdom / Malta / Cyprus / Switzerland / Austria / Germany / Belgium
Partnerships: International Federation of Places dedicated to Saint Leonard...