Maura

**Abbey-Church of Sainte-Foy de Conques** Maura Watson

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 * Background Information on the Church and Abbey:**

 
 * The abbey was founded in Conques, France, in 819 AD
 *  A hermit named Dadon chose the isolated, heavily forested area because it was ideal for quiet religious practices.
 * At this time, a small basilica was constructed and used for worship. The current church at Sainte-Foy was built many years later.


 * Over time, the abbey became a popular stop for pilgrims traveling to visit the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela in modern day Spain.


 * Pilgrim Route:**



***Interesting fact***- To attract more pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela, the monks of Sainte-Foy decided to steal the relics of Saint Foy, a virgin martyred in 303 AD, from a monastery in Agen.


 * Reliquary of Sainte Foy:**




 * The relics of Sainte Foy led to a massive influx of worshippers wishing to visit the abbey, so a new church was constructed to accomodate the pilgrims


 * Present Day Church:**


 * The present day church was completed in 1120 under the direction of abbot Odolric.