L’Abbatiale de Licques
in Pays d’Opale

Religious heritage at the service of agricultural development

Licques Abbey offers visitors an experience steeped in history and tranquility, conducive to contemplation and discovery!

Historical patrimony

Founded in the 11th century by the Premonstratensian order, Licques Abbey had the shape of a Latin cross. Originally 50 meters high and measuring 70 meters long and 25 meters wide at the transept, it dominated the landscape! Lightning struck the building in 1795, which explains its current size.

During its history, the abbey had several dozen monks and lay brothers who took care to develop agriculture and animal husbandry, notably by introducing the breeding of turkeys as early as the 16th century, which is still today the fame of the town.

In addition to its architectural and religious heritage, the abbey is surrounded by a natural landscape of exceptional beauty. You can stroll around and enjoy the tranquility of the peaceful gardens, ponds and wooded paths.

Gastronomy

Licques poultry is renowned for its tasty flesh and its quality, it is the result of rigorous selection carried out by local breeders over the generations.

The first mentions of this breed date back to the 17th century. Over the course of history, the poultry of Licques has acquired a growing reputation thanks to its participation in royal banquets and the tables of great restaurants. It obtained the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée in 1998, which guarantees the authenticity and quality of the product.