THE BENEDICTINE ABBEY

The Abbey of Saint-Thibéry was founded at the end of the 8th century, by Atilio, friend and disciple of Benedict of Aniane, near the tomb of three local martyrs: Tiberius, Florence and Modest. Built on the site of the ancient city of Cessero, at the crossroads of via Domitia and the ancient mercadale (merchant's path), the abbey attracts many pilgrims and participates in the Carolingian monastic renewal in the area. The Carolingian and Romanesque abbey, about which little is known, was ruined at the time of the Albigensian crusade. Rebuilt in the 14th and 15th centuries, the abbey was plundered and largely destroyed during the Wars of Religion. Only the abbey church and the monumental entrance door of the abbey remain standing. Monastic life deteriorated. In the 17th century, the few remaining friars called the congregation of Saint-Maur to restore the rule of Saint-Benoît and restore the monastery buildings. At the beginning of the 18th century, the buildings are rebuilt, integrating the remains of the 12th century west wing. During the Revolution, the monastic buildings were split up and sold to different owners. The church then became a parish church.