Fontenay Cistercian Abbey

Fontenay Cistercian Abbey

Fontenay Cistercian Abbey was built between 1139 and 1147, and is a typical example of early Romanesque Cistercian architecture. It is also the oldest church in France and one of the oldest Cistercian abbeys in Europe. The church is a cross-shaped rectangular Christian building, consisting of a central square with two aisles, the transept of the church, and a flat projecting chapel.

The abbey still retains its magnificent Romanesque architectural style. Except for the refectory, which was destroyed, all other buildings have been well preserved. These include the church, dormitories, cloisters, chapter house, boiler room, and the abbot’s residence. Together, the abbey and these structures present a perfect picture of the self-sufficient ideals of the early monastic community.

The cloister, like the church, was also built in the 12th century and is an outstanding surviving example of Romanesque architecture. The chapter house and cloister, like all Cistercian abbeys, feature a vaulted intersecting ribbed structure. It is here that the orders of Saint Bernard were read aloud every morning. Following Saint Bernard’s directives, the monks grew vegetables and herbs in the gardens.

Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay

Must-visit reason: The oldest church in France

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: France[France]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Burgundy Region [Burgundy Region]