History
In 1138 Raymond Trencavel, Viscount of Béziers founded the Abbey, situated
near the port of Mèze on the "Bassin de Thau". During the XII and XIII the Abbey
became one of the richest Cistercian Abbeys in the south of France.
Originally it was founded under Benedictine order but, later in1159, joined the
Cistercian movement (the "reformed" Benedictines). The moral and architectural
rules for this new order were laid down by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux.
After a period of important expansion and wealth, the Abbey suffered from the
effects of the 100 years war and later the wars of religion. Although partly
destroyed during the XIV century her splendour was recaptured during the XVII
and XVIII centuries. However it was eventually abandoned during the French
Revolution and requisitioned by the state. The Abbey was sold to Mr Granier
Joyeuse who remained owner until 1838. The Abbey was then acquired (with
permission from the Church) by the Count of Turenne, and has remained in the
same family ever since. The ownership of such a monument is both an exalting yet
worrying responsibility.
The Gothic Church was built on the foundations of a first Romanesque church that
became too small to welcome the increasing number of Monks. It was begun in
1257, and the architecture was based on that o the Cathedrals of northern
France. The Church is 83 meters long and 24 meters high. Since the "Révolution
Française" the church has become a cellar for wine. The cloister has all the
charm of a Tuscany garden, with a beautiful rare fountain and a remarkable
Chapter House, an exceptional example of pure and modest Cistercian
architecture. The monks refectory is now used as a concert hall, to provide
cultural entertainment in keeping with the magnificent and prestigious
surroundings.
Weddings & Receptions
Celebrate a special event in an extraordinary atmosphere. 2 possibilities:
Renting of the ensemble: Church, Cloister, Dining-Room
Renting: Cloister, Dining-Room
Seating 50 to 850 people
Congress - Weddings - Banquets
