Contemplate
Our religious heritage

Cradle of both Cistercian and Cluniac orders, Burgundy also played an important part in their development. Its rich heritage, featuring styles from many different periods, boasts a number of great sites, of course, but also many quiet little places which are equally enchanting.

Start with our spiritual roots

To the north of Auxerre stands one of the oldest Cistercian sites: the abbey church of Pontigny. This second foundation of Cîteaux abbey has only the simplest of adornments..

To the east in the Tonnerrois, Vausse priory, with its cloister of sturdy arches, stands at the heart of the state-owned forest of Châtel-Gérard. Notre-Dame-de-Quincy abbey, founded in 1133, is another example of Burgundy's Cistercian art.

Between Clamecy and Avallon, be sure to visit the Basilica of Vézelay, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage site. This striking building is filled with the most marvellous light and magnificent sculptures. Try to be there when the basilica resounds to the Gregorian chant of the Monastic Fraternities of Jerusalem.

Move on with the Cistercians

Accessed via the D905 road, Fontenay abbey is a jewel of Romanesque art and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the oldest Cistercian monasteries in Europe. Special tours and concerts are regular features.

Champmol Charterhouse, near Dijon, houses a magnificent sculpture called the Puits de Moïse (Moses' well). This tall stone cross bearing the dying Christ, was the work of the Dutch sculptor, Claus Sluter.

To the south are the famous Hospices de Beaune. This 15th century hospital, known as an Hôtel Dieu, is today a museum. The rather austere outer façade contrasts strongly with the rich décor of its central courtyard.

Finally, between the Canal de Bourgogne and the Saône, Cîteaux abbey now rules the Cistercian-Trappist order of monks. This cradle of Cistercian monasticism remains a major spiritual centre in Europe.

"Cluny is the symbol of monastic renewal in the West"

Continue with Romanesque art

At the heart of the medieval town of La Charité-sur-Loire you can visit one of the greatest examples of Burgundian Romanesque art: the priory. This UNESCO World Heritage site and major stopping point on the Santiago de Compostella pilgrim way has a magnificent church with hexagonal tower.

End with monastic revival

In the Bresse bourguignonne the distinctive church of Saint-Pierre-de-Louhans has a glazed tile roof and brick walls.

Continue south-west to Tournus. The Hôtel-Dieu, built between the 17th-19th centuries, now houses a hospital museum and the Greuze Museum devoted to fine art.

At Berzé-la-ville you can admire the exceptionally well preserved religious paintings in the Chapelle-aux-Moines.

North-west of Mâcon stands the symbol of monastic renewal in the West: Cluny abbey. Founded in 910, Cluny was recognized as “head of the order” by Pope John XI in 931 and became a major centre of learning in the Middle Ages.