What do these two have in common? The Abbey of Jumieges was founded in 654 as a Benedictine abbey, it was leveled by Vikings in the 9th century and rebuilt by William the Conquerer in the 11th century.  This large and impressive complex thrived for centuries and was the largest abbey in Normandy.  An abbey is a complex of buildings that provides a home for monks and nuns and activities for the community.  With the French Revolution and its animosity towards the church, the whole complex was turned into a quarry.  It has not changed since with no roof to protect the interior and many walls are entirely gone.  There is a group who would like to restore the entire complex but that has not proceeded yet. I hope my photographs will help you imagine the grandeur of this place.