The Mysterious French Medieval Gothic Cârța Monastery, Transylvania

Описание: The Cârța Monastery, located in the Țara Făgărașului region of southern Transylvania, Romania, has a rich history. Here are the key points:
It was founded by Cistercian monks from Igriș Abbey, Burgandy (a daughter house of Pontigny Abbey) around 1202–1206.
Although Idris no longer exists, Pontigny has many striking structural similarities to Cârța.
The exact founding date of the Cârța Monastery, a source of intrigue and allure, remains a mystery. A document dated 17 April 1418, issued by Sigismund, King of Hungary, vaguely states that the monastery was founded, built, and awarded rights and privileges by his predecessors. Cistercian documents from the 13th to 15th century mention the monastery's founding somewhere around 1202–1203.

The Cârța Monastery, a beacon of cultural significance, played a pivotal role in introducing and developing French Gothic art in the region, a testament to its enduring influence. In fact, the ruins are the most easterly example of Gothic medieval architecture in Europe.
Originally constructed of wood, the Cârța Monastery underwent a significant architectural evolution, transitioning to stone constructions with a small chapel and massive walls, a testament to its enduring presence and adaptability.
The fortified Evangelical-Lutheran church in Hălmeag, Transylvania, was built in the second half of the 11th century. It illustrates the transition phase from Romanesque to Gothic under the Cârța Cistercian monk's influence there. It is the second oldest church in Transylvania and after that of Cârța.

After the Mongolian invasion in 1241, a new architect gave the monastery mature Gothic forms.

An edict in 1494 disbanded it, and part of the ruins later became an Evangelical Lutheran church belonging to the local Saxon community. Here is how it looks inside today, and the French influence inside reflects that of Pontigny Abbey.

Part of the ruins were given over to a cemetery for soldiers who died in the First World War, and the local Saxon community keep the graves and surroundings well maintained.

Cârța Monastery is also known for its mysterious atmosphere. Local legends say the place is haunted by monks who lived here in the Middle Ages. It is said that the chairs move, the walls vibrate, and priests who have served here have observed paranormal phenomena.
#history #medieval #transylvania #monastery

Music
Gregorian Chant by Kevin Macleod-youtubemp3free.org

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