Zisterzienser

The Zisterzienser, or Cistercians, are a Catholic religious order founded in 1098 in France, emphasizing a return to a strict, prayer-centered monastic life. They follow the Rule of St. Benedict, focusing on manual labor, simplicity, and self-sufficiency. Known for their impressive, functional monasteries and contributions to agriculture and craftsmanship, the Cistercians played a significant role in medieval Europe’s spiritual and economic development. Their emphasis on austerity and community life aimed to foster a deeper connection with God, influencing many other monastic traditions and shaping medieval ecclesiastical and cultural history.