Northern BurgundyAbbaye de Fontenay

Founded in 1118 by Saint Bernard the Abbaye de Fontenay (Fontenay Abbey) is nestled in a wooded valley in northern Burgundy near the village of Montbard. Unlike so many religious buildings in France Abbaye de Fontenay is unique in that it is not located in the middle of a city or town. This allows for almost total relaxation when visiting, as there are no urban sounds to distract your sightseeing.
In 1981 UNESCO declared the Abbaye de Fontenay a World Heritage site, only one of 23 in France. Its Architecture is Romanesque in style and very simple in design. Meaning there is nothing fancy about any of the building but never the less they hold real beauty. The propositions with the buildings in relation to the grounds seem to be perfect.
The Cistercian church on the Abbey's grounds is one old the oldest preserved in France.
Not to be missed are the Cloisters or walkways to the right of the church, accessible through the Chapter House.
The Abbaye de Fontenay is an hour and a half from Dijon and is accessible from both the A6 and A 38 Autoroutes (Toll Roads). There are guided tours, not sure if they are in English or not. You can also take a self-guided tour with documentation in English. Allow a good hour when visiting the Abbaye de Fontenay so that your have the time to stroll the grounds.

Related Links:
Abbaye de Fontenay
Fontenay Abbey, Burgundy
Fontenay Abbey Image Tour

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