Cîteaux

Cîteaux is a commune in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France. It is best known for the Cîteaux Abbey, the mother house of the Cistercian order of monasticism.

History

The commune of Cîteaux was established in the 11th century, when a group of Benedictine monks, led by Robert of Molesme, sought to return to a more austere and devout lifestyle. They founded the Cîteaux Abbey in 1098, which became the birthplace of the Cistercian order.

The Cistercians, also known as the "White Monks" due to their undyed woolen robes, quickly spread across Europe. They were known for their strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict, their emphasis on manual labor and self-sufficiency, and their contributions to agriculture, particularly the cultivation of vineyards in the Burgundy region.

Cîteaux Abbey

The Cîteaux Abbey remains a significant site of religious and historical importance. It is the mother house of the Cistercian order, and was the home of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, one of the most influential church leaders of the 12th century.

The abbey was largely destroyed during the French Revolution, but was later rebuilt. Today, it is still home to a community of Cistercian monks, who continue the traditions of prayer, study, and manual labor. The abbey also produces Cîteaux cheese, a soft, creamy cheese that is sold throughout France.

See also

• Cistercian Order
• Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
• French Revolution
• Saint Bernard of Clairvaux