Molesme

Molesme is a commune in the Yonne department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of north-central France. The village sits in a rural landscape of farmland and woodland and forms part of the local administrative framework of the department.

Historically, Molesme is best known for the Abbey of Molesme, founded in the 11th century by Robert of Molesme as a reform-minded Benedictine monastery. The abbey became a focal point of monastic reform and is associated with the early development of the Cistercian Order, which was established at Cîteaux in 1098 by Robert’s successors. The influence of the Molesme reform contributed to the broader movement toward stricter monastic observance in medieval Europe.

Over time, the abbey declined and was dissolved during the French Revolution. Today, the site exists mainly as historical ruins and monuments, marking the place as an important chapter in medieval monastic history.

With its small population, Molesme is a typical rural commune. The local economy rests on agriculture and small-scale enterprises, and the village preserves its historical heritage and rural traditions.