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Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet: A Haven of History and Spirituality

Discover the Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet in Auros, a historic Cistercian abbey offering a serene escape, architectural beauty, and a taste of local monastic life in the heart of the Gironde.

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Nestled in the serene countryside near Auros, France, the Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet offers a tranquil escape into history and spirituality. Founded in the Carolingian era, this Cistercian abbey has witnessed centuries of change, from its Benedictine origins to its current life as a Trappistine monastery. Explore the abbey's architecture, wander its peaceful grounds, and discover the grotto modeled after Lourdes. The abbey also produces local wines, offering visitors a taste of the region's rich heritage. A visit promises a unique blend of historical exploration, religious reflection, and regional flavors, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a peaceful and enriching experience in the heart of the Gironde.

A brief summary to Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet

  • Monday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Check the abbey's website for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours and any special events or services that may be taking place during your visit.
  • Consider purchasing some of the abbey's products, such as their homemade cookies or liturgical items, as a way to support the community and take home a unique souvenir.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the abbey, as it is a place of worship. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing.
  • Take time to explore the surrounding countryside, which is known for its vineyards and picturesque landscapes.
  • If you are interested in a deeper spiritual experience, inquire about the possibility of staying at the abbey's guesthouse for a period of retreat and reflection.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Auros, head northwest on D672/Route de Bazas toward D125E1. Continue to follow D672 for approximately 1.5 km. Turn left onto D10E1, continue for 1km then turn left onto Route du Rivet. The Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet will be on your left. Parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    From Bordeaux, take the train to Langon. From Langon, the abbey is approximately 10 km away. You can take a taxi from Langon to the Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet. The taxi fare will be approximately €20-€30. Alternatively, bus lines 501 and 512 stop in Auros. From the Auros bus stop, it is approximately a 30-minute walk (2.5km) to the abbey.

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Discover more about Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet

The Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet, also known as the Abbaye Notre-Dame du Rivet, is a Cistercian abbey steeped in history and nestled in the commune of Auros, in the Gironde department of France. Its story stretches back to the Carolingian era, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of religious and architectural evolution. Founded as a Benedictine monastery possibly as early as the 8th century, the Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet boasts a rich and complex past. Some archives suggest a monastic presence dating back to the time of Charlemagne. Fortifications surrounding the abbey date back to the 9th century, while the abbey church itself largely originates from the 13th century, marking it as one of France's oldest monasteries. In 1189, the monastery embraced the Cistercian order, solidifying its dedication to a life of prayer, contemplation, and labor. The abbey's name, Sainte-Marie, was already in use at this time. Elevated to the status of an abbey in 1408, it faced numerous challenges, including the Hundred Years' War, which left the community with only a handful of monks by 1478. The 16th century brought further turmoil during the Wars of Religion, when the abbey suffered devastation at the hands of Protestants. The community struggled, and by 1702, only one monk remained. However, the appointment of a commendatory abbot by Louis XIV led to a gradual revival. The French Revolution brought another wave of upheaval, as the monks were expelled and the monastery was sold as national property in 1791. The buildings were later acquired by the Tamize family in 1885, who initiated restoration efforts. Louise Ripas, the family's governess, inspired the creation of a grotto resembling that of Lourdes after experiencing a healing at the famous pilgrimage site. A spring emerged during the grotto's construction, adding to its significance. In 1938, the abbey experienced a rebirth when Cistercian nuns from Blagnac, near Toulouse, sought a new home due to the construction of an airport near their existing monastery. They settled at Le Rivet in 1939, breathing new life into the ancient site. Today, the abbey is home to a community of Trappistine nuns, who follow the Cistercian Order of Strict Observance. The abbey's architecture reflects its long and varied history. The restored church features walls and columns dating back to the 13th century, along with Merovingian capitals and corbels. Visitors can also explore the cave similar to that of Lourdes, a testament to the abbey's spiritual significance. The nuns support themselves through various activities, including managing a guesthouse, raising poultry, baking cookies, and crafting liturgical items. A shop on-site offers a range of local products made by the sisters, including poultry, cakes, scarves, and liturgical ornaments. Located about three kilometers northwest of the village of Auros, the Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet is accessible via the D10 road towards Langon, followed by a small country road to the north from the locality of Saint-Germain. The abbey derives its name from the Rivet stream, a tributary of the Beuve, which flows through the property. Visiting the Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the tranquility of monastic life. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, its spiritual atmosphere, or its beautiful architecture, the abbey provides a peaceful and enriching escape in the heart of the Gironde countryside. While visiting, consider these points: * Explore the church: Admire the architecture, including the 13th-century walls and Merovingian details. * Visit the Grotto: Reflect at the grotto modeled after Lourdes and learn about its history. * Shop at the Abbey Store: Purchase local products made by the nuns, such as baked goods, crafts, and religious items. * Attend a Service: If possible, attend a religious service to experience the abbey's spiritual atmosphere. * Walk the Grounds: Take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful gardens and surrounding countryside. * Wine Tasting: Partake in wine tastings, allowing visitors a taste of the region's rich heritage. The Abbaye Sainte Marie du Rivet is more than just a historical site; it is a living testament to faith, resilience, and community. A visit here offers a chance to connect with the past, appreciate the present, and find inspiration in the enduring spirit of this remarkable place. Today, 14 nuns live in the Rivet Abbey. They are Trappistines, that is to say they belong to the Cistercian order of Strict Observance, which is an order stemming from the Cistercians of the Common Observance.

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