Acey Abbey
Acey Abbey is a Cistercian monastery founded in 1136 in Vitreux, France. Originally established with monks from Cherlieu Abbey, it played a role in regional conflicts and underwent significant restoration, particularly in the 18th century. Following its dissolution during the French Revolution, the abbey was reoccupied in 1873 by Trappist monks and continues to function as a monastic site, being the sole Cistercian foundation in Franche-Comté still serving its original purpose.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1136 by monks from Cherlieu Abbey.
- ›Was involved in warfare between the Free County of Burgundy and the Duchy of Burgundy.
- ›Suffered damage from collapse and fire in the 17th century, followed by extensive restoration.
- ›Dissolved during the French Revolution in 1790.
- ›Reoccupied by Trappist monks in 1873.
- ›The 12th-century church is listed as a monument historique.
Romanesque
12th-Century Church, Cloister, Exhibition Area Within the Nave
Abbaye D'Acey, Aceyum
Anseric De MontréAl, Renaud Iii, Count of Burgundy
- Founded In 1136
- Founded Daughter House Pilis Abbey In Hungary
- Involved In Warfare In 1435, 1477, 1569, and 1595
- Nave Collapse In 1650
- Abbey Burnt Down In 1683
- Extensive Restoration Between 1745 and 1771
- Dissolved During the French Revolution In 1790
- Reoccupied By Trappist Monks In 1873
- Church Restored Between 1900 and 1910
- Community Raised To Abbey Status In 1938
About Acey Abbey
Acey Abbey, known in Latin as Aceyum and in French as Abbaye d'Acey, is a historic Cistercian monastery situated in Vitreux, within the Jura department of France. Founded in 1136, the abbey was established at the urging of the Archbishop of Besançon and Renaud III, Count of Burgundy, drawing its initial community from Cherlieu Abbey. This foundation, part of the Clairvaux filiation, grew rapidly, establishing six granges and even a daughter house, Pilis Abbey in Hungary, by 1184.
History and Resilience
The abbey's strategic location on the border of the Free County of Burgundy and the Duchy of Burgundy meant it was frequently drawn into regional conflicts, experiencing warfare in 1435, 1477, 1569, and 1595. The 17th century brought further hardship, with a significant collapse of the abbey church's nave in 1650 and a devastating fire in 1683. Despite these challenges, extensive restoration works were undertaken between 1745 and 1771.
Revolution and Revival
The French Revolution led to the abbey's dissolution in 1790, after which the premises saw various uses, many of them religious following the monarchy's restoration. A significant revival occurred in 1873 when the buildings were reoccupied by Trappist monks from Aiguebelle Abbey. The church underwent restoration between 1900 and 1910, and in 1938, the community was officially re-established as an abbey. Acey Abbey holds the distinction of being the only Cistercian foundation in Franche-Comté still actively serving its original monastic purpose.
Structures
The abbey church, a 12th-century structure, is recognized as a monument historique and has been subject to restoration. It features an eight-bay nave, which has been partially partitioned to create an exhibition space, two side aisles, a transept with chapels, and a choir with a flat end wall. The cloister is situated to the north of the church.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Acey Abbey founded?
Acey Abbey was founded in the year 1136. Its establishment was instigated by the Archbishop of Besançon and the Count of Burgundy.
Who currently occupies Acey Abbey?
Since 1873, Acey Abbey has been occupied by Trappist monks. These monks came from Aiguebelle Abbey.
Is Acey Abbey still functioning as a monastery?
Yes, Acey Abbey is still used for its original monastic purpose. It is the only Cistercian foundation in Franche-Comté that remains active in this capacity.
What is the architectural significance of Acey Abbey?
The abbey church, dating from the 12th century, is a significant structure and has been listed as a monument historique since 1971. It has undergone restoration, and parts of the nave are used for exhibitions.
Has Acey Abbey experienced periods of destruction or damage?
Yes, the abbey has faced considerable challenges throughout its history. In the 17th century, parts of the church nave collapsed, and the abbey itself burned down in 1683. It was also dissolved during the French Revolution.
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