Cistercian churches

Cistercian churches are religious structures built by the Cistercian order, a monastic group founded in the 11th century in France. They emphasize simplicity, austerity, and a close relationship with nature. Characterized by their plain architecture, Cistercian churches often feature large, open spaces, pointed arches, and a lack of elaborate ornamentation. These buildings typically served as places of worship, community life, and work for monks dedicated to prayer and agriculture. The Cistercian legacy has significantly influenced European Gothic architecture and monastic practices, promoting harmony between spirituality and the surrounding environment.