The Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay is a historic site located in Marmagne, France, showcasing the self-sufficiency ideal of early Cistercian monks.

Overview

Located in the Burgundian region, this 11th-century monastery was founded by St Bernard in 1119 and features an extensive range of buildings, including a church, cloister, refectory, sleeping quarters, bakery, and ironworks. The site is notable for its well-preserved architecture and its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Founded by St Bernard in 1119, the Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay was established to promote a life of self-sufficiency and spiritual contemplation among its monks. Unfortunately, no specific details about the abbey's early history are available.

Architecture

The monastery's architecture is characteristic of the Cistercian style, with a focus on simplicity, functionality, and natural materials. According to UNESCO, the site features an impressive range of buildings, including a church, cloister, refectory, sleeping quarters, bakery, and ironworks.

Location

The Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay is situated in Marmagne, France, at coordinates 47.63944, 4.38911. Unfortunately, no specific information about the site's surrounding landscape or immediate neighbors are available.

Religious Significance

As a Cistercian abbey, the Fontenay monastery was established to promote a life of spiritual contemplation and self-sufficiency among its monks. According to UNESCO, the site is an excellent illustration of the ideal of self-sufficiency as practised by the earliest communities of Cistercian monks.

Notable Artworks and Features

Unfortunately, no specific information about notable artworks or features within the abbey are available.

Heritage Status

The Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1981. According to UNESCO, the site is an excellent illustration of the ideal of self-sufficiency as practised by the earliest communities of Cistercian monks.

Visiting Information

Unfortunately, no specific information about visiting hours, tickets, or guided tours are available.