The gardens of Aulps Abbey
A space consisting of two terraces, the first of which houses the botanical garden of medicinal plants (Herbularius) and the second, below, is reserved for the medieval vegetable garden (Hortus).
Gardens
The Herbularius, structured into 25 beds classified according to the main uses of the plants in traditional medicine, contains around 80 plants (species and varieties). The presence of a large proportion of these plants at the time of the monks is confirmed by the ethnobotanical study carried out by Stéphane CROZAT in May and October 2000.
The Hortus answers the public's question: "What did the monks eat?" and, more broadly, the population of the Aulps Valley in the Middle Ages.
Designed and created by the La Guérinière association under the scientific direction of Stéphane CROZAT, its 14 flowerbeds, framed by chestnut fencing, feature plants similar to those cultivated in the Middle Ages. The experimental nature of many of the plantings means that the gardens are constantly evolving.
Designed and created by the La Guérinière association under the scientific direction of Stéphane CROZAT, its 14 flowerbeds, framed by chestnut fencing, feature plants similar to those cultivated in the Middle Ages. The experimental nature of many of the plantings means that the gardens are constantly evolving.
The rose garden
The rose, the ultimate symbol of Mary, is one of the allegories of the purity and virginity of Mary, mother of Jesus. All Cistercian abbeys are dedicated to her.
This rose garden consists of a mixture of old and modern roses. This space, dedicated to contemplation, has taken root in the lapidary repository, echoing the roses carved in stone found in the abbey church.
The conservation orchard
The Abbey of Aulps is involved in a project to preserve ancient and local fruit varieties.
These varieties, known as rustic varieties, are well suited to mountain soils and climates and are an integral part of the local culture. For example, the Maude pear tree takes its name from the use made of its fruit: cider or "maude" in the local dialect.
Furthermore, the conservation of ancient varieties ensures the preservation of a diverse local fruit genetic heritage.
These varieties, known as rustic varieties, are well suited to mountain soils and climates and are an integral part of the local culture. For example, the Maude pear tree takes its name from the use made of its fruit: cider or "maude" in the local dialect.
Furthermore, the conservation of ancient varieties ensures the preservation of a diverse local fruit genetic heritage.