Imec - Institut Mémoires de l'édition contemporaine | Abbaye d'Ardenne

Imec - Ardenne Abbey
An abbey for reading, writing and dreaming

Caen's third abbey (12th century), a historic site of the Battle of Normandy that has now been restored, is home to the Institut Mémoires de l'édition contemporaine (Imec). The association preserves the archives of major publishing houses and magazines, as well as the manuscripts of major writers, philosophers and artists. A centre for research and literary creation, the Imec also offers free cultural programming throughout the year (conferences, exhibitions, events, tours). Its splendid abbey church, converted into a research library, has become a unique workspace open to all, by prior arrangement. Don't miss it! When the warm weather returns, Imec will have a café renowned for its choice of products and the quality of its welcome, in a majestic and inspiring setting. To find out more about the programme of activities: www.imec-archives.com.

Open: Gardens and grounds: Tuesday to Sunday, 2pm to 6pm.
Exhibitions and café: Wednesday to Sunday, 2pm to 6pm.
Library: Tuesday to Thursday, 9.30am to 6pm, and Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Admission: Free admission.

Ardenne Abbey is owned by the Regional Council and is a listed historic monument. It has been awarded the prestigious "Centre Culturel de Rencontre" label, which recognises historic monuments with unique cultural projects. Imec's missions and activities are supported by the Ministry of Culture (Normandy Regional Department of Cultural Affairs) and the Normandy Regional Council.

Temporary exhibition 2026:
Autoportrait, by Thomas Clerc, from 21 May to 29 November