Bellevaux Abbey, Cistercian abbey in Cirey, France.
The monastic complex spreads through a wooded valley, enclosed by a perimeter wall. The Romanesque abbey church and preserved conventual buildings reflect characteristic Cistercian architecture from the 12th century.
Pons I de La Roche founded the monastery in 1119 as the first Cistercian abbey in Franche-Comté and the first daughter house of Morimond. The abbey church was consecrated in 1143 and received the relics of Peter II in 1175.
Following the canonization of Peter II of Tarentaise in 1191, the abbey developed into an important pilgrimage destination, drawing visitors from across Burgundy and shaping the spiritual landscape of the region.
The complex sits in the Haute-Saône department and has been listed as a historical monument since 1946. Its location in a remote wooded valley requires independent transportation, and visitors should verify limited opening hours in advance.
An elaborate water system has utilized a natural spring since the foundation, supplying agricultural operations, mills and sanitary facilities for the monks across centuries of continuous monastic activity.
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