A Benedictine monastery in Normandy (Seine-Inférieure), near Caudebec-en-Caux, founded by Saint Wandrille (died 667). The basilica he erected was consecrated, 657, and was subsequently destroyed and rebuilt several times. After its destruction by Danish pirates, 862, the community sojourned in other centers but was restored to Fontenelle, 966. Fervor and learning characterized the monks and many privileges were granted to them. The monastery was famed for its library and school, where calligraphy in particular, as well as letters, sciences, and the fine arts, were cultivated. The introduction of commendatory abbots in the 16th century lessened the prosperity of the abbey, but it enjoyed some of its earlier prestige when taken over by the Maurists, 1636. Suppressed in 1791, it was sold the following year. From 1893-1901 it was held by the French Benedictines. The chapel of Saint Saturnin, also erected by Saint Wandrille, overlooks the abbey. It is one of the oldest ecclesiastical buildings in existence.
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