Abbaye de la Crête, Medieval abbey in Bourdons-sur-Rognon, France.
The Abbaye de la Crête is a medieval monastery with Gothic architecture featuring stone walls and vaulted ceilings that date back to the 12th century. The site preserves several structures, including a monumental porter's lodge from the 18th century, which served as the main entry point to the complex.
Simon II of Clefmont founded the abbey in 1121, establishing it as the second daughter house of the Cistercian order through monks sent from Morimond Abbey. The community later expanded its influence across the region through numerous properties and economic ventures.
The monastery shaped the region's economy and daily rhythms through its farms, mills, and land holdings that extended far beyond its walls. These operations made it a vital institution that local communities depended on for employment and resources.
The abbey is not always open to visitors and typically requires advance arrangements or participation in guided tours. It is best to check conditions before visiting, as access to certain areas may be limited.
The grounds include a Hildegarde Garden planted in 2015 that cultivates medicinal herbs following medieval monastic traditions. This working garden offers visitors insight into the plants that monks once relied on for healing and daily monastery operations.
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