Ferrières-en-Gâtinais, located on the edge of the Gâtinais bocage, in the Cléry valley, is a city whose name evokes the presence of iron ore with mines that were exploited until the 18th century. This ore would be at the origin of the first development of the city during the Gallic period.
However, it is the presence of a powerful abbey founded here by Clovis and placed under the direct authority of the Pope that made the site famous. At its height, in the Middle Ages, the monastery experienced immense spiritual influence, thanks to its scriptorium (copyists' workshop) and its trading post in the Bay of Canche, in Normandy, which enabled it to trade with the British Isles. Its area of influence extends for hundreds of kilometers and the abbey is home to many popes, kings and queens of France. During the Revolution, however, the monks were dispersed and monastic life died out. The buildings are sold as national assets and partly destroyed. The two churches, now classified as Historic Monuments, are saved by their assignment to parish worship.
From this glorious past, Ferrières en Gâtinais retains many traces in the old historic town.
Note the presence of a drinking water tap next to the creperie near the porch marking one of the entrances to the enclosure which once protected the abbey.