Cîteaux Abbey

Cîteaux Abbey, founded in 1098 in France, is the birthplace of the Cistercian monastic order. It was established by monks seeking a simpler, more austere lifestyle focused on prayer, manual labor, and community living, in contrast to the existing Benedictine practices. The Cistercians emphasized agricultural development and self-sufficiency, leading to innovations in farming. The abbey played a significant role in the spread of Cistercian ideals throughout Europe. Today, it remains an active monastic community, continuing its traditions of contemplation and work, and is recognized for its historical and spiritual significance.