History of Le Clos Jeannon

It all began in 1098 in Burgundy with the founding of Cîteaux Abbey, the first abbey of the Cistercian Order. A few years later, in 1112, Bernard of Clairvaux entered the community. A visionary and influential spiritual leader, he played a pivotal role in the Order’s rapid expansion across Europe.

It was in this context that, in 1135, Duke Simon I founded the first Cistercian abbey in Lorraine. A close friend of Bernard of Clairvaux, he asked him to establish the Order on his lands. A few decades later, his son, Duke Mathieu I of Lorraine, built on this legacy by founding Clairlieu Abbey on the edge of the Forest of Haye. Built between the 12th and early 13th century, the abbey became one of the region’s leading spiritual centres, known as the ‘Saint-Denis of Lorraine’.

Around these abbeys, a network of alliances between the great families of Burgundy and Lorraine gradually took shape. These historical, family and spiritual ties link Clairlieu in particular with Maizières Abbey, near Beaune, forging a lasting connection between Burgundy and Lorraine.

From the Middle Ages onwards, the village that would later become Villers-lès-Nancy took shape around Clairlieu Abbey. From the 13th century onwards, it included the Remicourt estate, comprising land and a fortified house. The house was later converted into a castle, and the estate was created as a fief by the Dukes of Lorraine.

The site quickly became an important focal point. As early as 1345, a chapel dedicated to Saint Fiacre, patron saint of gardeners, was built there. It attracted many pilgrims, drawn both by their faith and by a spring renowned for its healing properties, particularly for eye ailments.

In the 15th century, the fate of the Remicourt estate became intertwined with that of a prominent figure: Jean de Bidos, better known as ‘Jeannon l’Arbalétrier’ (Jeannon the Crossbowman).

As captain of the ducal guard and a close associate of Duke René II of Lorraine, he distinguished himself at the Battle of Nancy in 1477, where Charles the Bold was defeated, securing Lorraine’s independence. In recognition of his bravery, the Duke rewarded Jeannon by granting him the lordship of Remicourt.

He took up residence in the castle, leaving such a lasting mark on its history that it came to bear his name, which it retains to this day.

Over the centuries, the site underwent many changes. Saint Fiacre Church, rebuilt in 1786 in the centre of the village, bears witness to the vitality of this community.

Le Clos Jeannon, opposite the church, forms part of this rich heritage. Its name is a reminder of the enclosed estates once associated with the nobility of Lorraine and reflects its historic connection with the old quarter of Remicourt.

Today, Le Clos Jeannon is writing a new chapter in its history. Closely linked to the Domaine de l’Abbaye de Maizières, Le Clos Jeannon marks the revival of a place where heritage, nature, the French art de vivre and fine dining come together.

A remarkable heritage brought back to life to be shared and enjoyed.