Abbaye Sainte-Marie de Rieunette

Abbaye Sainte-Marie de Rieunette is a Cistercian monastery in a rural valley of the Aude department, its stone buildings harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. The complex includes residential quarters, a chapel, working spaces, and extensive gardens that support monastic life.

Founded in 1162, the monastery went through long periods of interruption and decline. Cistercian nuns from Boulaur revived it in the 20th century, and after restoration work, it reopened in 1998.

The community of Cistercian nuns shapes daily life here through regular prayers and shared meals that visitors can experience. The chapel and gardens are places where the spiritual rhythm of the community becomes visible.

The monastery offers accommodation for visitors seeking time for rest and reflection or wishing to join community activities. Access may be limited since it remains an active monastic site operating under certain guidelines.

The name comes from the Latin term Rivus nitidus, meaning shining stream, reflecting the small waterway that flows through the area. This connection to nature shows how early Cistercians immortalized their surroundings in place names.