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Abbey · Dijon, Borgonha-Franco-Condado
Abbaye de Cîteaux
Abbey founded in 1098, birthplace of the Cistercian order, still inhabited by monks. Visits are always guided, in French, with mandatory reservation, within the monastic enclosure.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Abbaye de Cîteaux
The Abbaye de Cîteaux was founded in 1098 by Robert of Molesme in an area of marshes south of Dijon. From there the Cistercian order was born, which spread across Europe with more than two thousand monasteries and shaped religious life, agriculture and architecture in the Middle Ages.
The monks of Cîteaux played a central role in the history of Burgundy wine: they planted and tended the Clos de Vougeot and helped identify the plots that became the climats.
Little remains of the medieval abbey, largely demolished after the French Revolution. The community of monks returned at the end of the 19th century and lives there to this day. The tour route goes through the historic buildings of old Cîteaux, such as the library, and explains monastic life and the Cistercian tradition.
Because the buildings are within the enclosure, all visits are guided, in French, with groups of up to 25 people and mandatory reservation. Visitors may attend the monks' offices.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
The guided visit lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Also allow about a 10-minute walk from the parking to the reception.
Best time
Visits run from April to early November, Wednesday to Sunday for much of the season, with days and times that change each period. Check the calendar and book before you go.
How to get there
It is in Saint-Nicolas-lès-Cîteaux, about 25 km south of Dijon and about 15 km from Nuits-Saint-Georges. Practical access is by car; there is no suitable direct public transport for visitors.
Tip
The visit is only in French. Those who do not speak the language will get more out of it by combining it with Clos de Vougeot, which is linked to the monks' history. The abbey shop sells products made by the monks, such as Cîteaux cheese.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Abbaye de Cîteaux
Do you need to book a visit to the Abbaye de Cîteaux?
Yes. All visits are guided, in groups of up to 25 people, and reservation is mandatory.
Is the visit in another language?
No, only in French. Foreign groups need to bring an interpreter.
Is the abbey open all year?
No. Visits usually run from April to early November, with days and times that vary by season. Check the annual schedule.
Are there still monks at the abbey?
Yes. a Cistercian community lives in Cîteaux, and visitors can attend the offices.