Morimond Abbey

Morimond Abbey is a monastery ruin in Parnoy-en-Bassigny whose remains display stonework from different periods. The site contains fragments of the north aisle, an 18th-century gateway, a building that housed the monastic library, and several pavilions scattered across the grounds.

The monastery was founded in 1115 and quickly developed into one of the four primary establishments of the Cistercian Order. It played a central role in spreading this monastic community across Europe.

The monastery shaped religious life across Europe by establishing a network of affiliated communities spanning multiple countries. Visitors can still observe traces of these far-reaching connections in the surviving structures today.

The grounds are open for visitors to explore the surviving stone structures at their own pace. Informational panels throughout the site explain monastic life and its history, helping visitors understand the ruins better.

The name comes from Latin 'mori mundo' meaning 'renounce the world', reflecting the monks' inner commitment. This choice of words shows how deeply withdrawal from secular life was embedded in the order's identity.

Location: Parnoy-en-Bassigny

Inception: 12 century

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

GPS coordinates: 48.05722,5.67278

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:40