Ligugé Bric-à-brac

Ligugé, dean of Western abbeys

About 3,200 inhabitants 10 km south of Poitiers, in the Clain valley. Famous for its Saint-Martin Abbey, founded in 361 by Saint Martin of Tours — the oldest abbey in the West, nearly 1,700 years of continuous monastic history (with some interruptions). Benedictine monks still live and work there, producing enamels and crafts sold in the shop.

In this historic, spiritual setting, the annual bric-à-brac (Saturday 20 June 2026) brings popular animation. A classic flea market — a relaxed family hunt.

What to find

• Villager family bric-à-brac
• Adults' and children's clothes, shoes
• Toys, games, books, comics
• Tableware, porcelain, small appliances
• Decor, small furniture
• Used books, vinyl, DVD

The Clain and the abbey: unique setting

Ligugé nestles in a Clain river bend. Green, poplared riverbanks and gardens make it one of the agglomeration's finest villages. The abbey, with 19th-century buildings on medieval foundations, dominates. A market here is a real cultural outing.

The abbey: unmissable

Saint-Martin Abbey welcomes visitors year-round: public liturgy, retreat guest house, shop (enamels, books, monastic products), exhibition on monasticism history. Pilgrimage site linked to Saint Martin, central to Western Christianity.

Nearby

Poitiers centre (10 km, 15 min). Saint-Benoît (5 km). Smarves (8 km). Vivonne (15 km). Futuroscope (25 km). Full day: market morning, abbey afternoon, Clain walk evening.

Tips

Arrive 8-9 am. Cash, bag. Visit abbey after hunting (check hours). Lunch at village restaurant. Families: Petite Venise (poplar banks) for picnic.