Abbey Church of Saint Germer-de-Fly

Saint Germer, a Frankish nobleman at the court of King Dagobert I , retired to religious life and founded an abbey in Flay in 655 after the death of his son Amalbert. Over the centuries, the abbey suffered several periods of destruction and reconstruction, notably due to Viking invasions. Restored to monks in 1036, it then took the name of its founder: Saint-Germer.

The abbey church, built between 1135 and 1206, displays a transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic art. The Chapel of the Virgin Mary, built from 1259 onwards, is inspired by the Sainte-Chapelle and exemplifies the Rayonnant Gothic style.

The abbey suffered further damage, notably during the Hundred Years' War , followed by several restoration campaigns. During the French Revolution, part of the buildings was sold and dismantled for materials. The abbey church and chapel then became the parish church, a function they retain to this day. Guided tours and interpretive materials are offered by the Pays de Bray tourist office to help visitors discover this exceptional heritage site.