Pontigny facts for kids

Pontigny is a small and historic village in central France. It is located in the Yonne department, which is part of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. This quiet commune is especially famous for its ancient abbey, which has a long and interesting history.

Where is Pontigny?

Pontigny is found in the northern part of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. It is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) northeast of the city of Auxerre. The village is situated along the Serein River, which adds to its peaceful countryside setting. The area around Pontigny is mostly agricultural, with fields and vineyards.

A Look Back in Time: The Abbey of Pontigny

The most important part of Pontigny's history is linked to its famous abbey. The Pontigny Abbey was a very important Cistercian monastery.

Founding of the Abbey

The Abbey of Pontigny was founded in the year 1114. It was the second daughter house of the famous Cîteaux Abbey, which was the main monastery of the Cistercian order. Monks from Cîteaux came to this peaceful valley to build their new home. They chose this spot because it was quiet and suitable for their way of life.

A Place of Refuge

Over the centuries, Pontigny Abbey became a significant religious center. It was known as a place of refuge for important figures. For example, Thomas Becket, a famous Archbishop of Canterbury, stayed here from 1164 to 1166. He was in exile from England during a disagreement with King Henry II. Another important person who found refuge at Pontigny was Stephen Langton, another Archbishop of Canterbury, in the early 1200s. These visits show how important and respected the abbey was.

Architecture of the Abbey

The abbey church is a wonderful example of Romanesque and early Gothic styles. It is one of the largest and best-preserved Cistercian churches in France. The church is known for its simple, yet grand design. Cistercian monks believed in simplicity, so their buildings often have less decoration than other churches from the same time. The large windows allow lots of light inside, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

The Abbey During the French Revolution

Like many religious buildings in France, Pontigny Abbey faced big changes during the French Revolution (1789-1799). The monastery was closed down, and the monks had to leave. Many parts of the abbey buildings were destroyed or sold off. However, the main abbey church was saved. It became a local parish church, which means it continued to be used for religious services by the people of Pontigny.

Pontigny Today

Today, Pontigny is a quiet village that welcomes visitors. The former abbey church is still the main attraction. It stands as a powerful reminder of the village's rich past. People come to see its impressive architecture and learn about its history.

Local Life

Life in Pontigny is peaceful. The village has a small population and offers a calm environment away from busy cities. The local economy is mainly based on agriculture. Visitors can enjoy the quiet countryside and explore the historic church.

Things to Do in Pontigny

• Visit the Abbey Church: Explore the grand Pontigny Abbey church, admire its architecture, and learn about its history.
• Walk along the Serein River: Enjoy the natural beauty of the area with a stroll by the river.
• Explore the Village: Discover the charm of this small French village.

Pontigny might be a small commune, but its historical importance, especially through its abbey, makes it a fascinating place to learn about French history and architecture.