What is cistercien?

The Cistercians, also known as the Order of Cistercians, are a Catholic monastic order that was founded in 1098 by Saint Robert of Molesme. The order was a reform of the Benedictine order, with a focus on simplicity and closer adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict. The Cistercians strove for a life of austerity and contemplation, with a focus on manual labor and self-sufficiency. They emphasized prayer and meditation as a means of uniting the mind, body, and spirit in service of God.

The Cistercian order flourished throughout Europe in the Middle Ages, with hundreds of monasteries and convents established across the continent. They were known for their expertise in land management and agriculture, and their efforts helped to spur economic growth and development in many regions. The Cistercians also played a major role in developing Gothic architecture, with many of their monasteries featuring intricate stonework and soaring vaulted ceilings.

Today, the Cistercians continue to be a vibrant religious order, with communities in countries around the world. They are known for their commitment to prayer, simplicity, and service, and continue to be a significant force in the Catholic Church.