20th May - DEDICATION OF THE CHURCH OF LA FERTE (BURGUNDY)

 The first daughter-house of Citeaux, was founded by St. Bernard’s Cistercian Order. It was one of the largest Cistercian Abbeys and one of the first four abbeys for women. 

    These Abbeys had a major role in the future organization of the Cistercian Order. During the years 1165 and 1166 the Abbey was at the very heart of disputes. 

    The convent buildings were reconstructed during the 13th century, and in 1362 the whole complex was surrounded by a stout wall and moat with a single door served by a drawbridge. 

    In 1574, Rev. Francis Beugre rebuilt the abbey cloister and other buildings. In the year 1760, Fr. Francois Chemilly added some new construction, 

    including an addition to the front of the Abbey house. The pediment that can still be seen is decorated with his coat of arms.




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