Due to the spread of Cistercian monasteries, landscape and settlement structures are similar in far-flung areas of Europe. They have been markers of a common European heritage over centuries. Even today the work of the monks can be traced in many typical landscape features. Characteristics of Cistercian monastic landscapes

• an elaborate hydraulic engineering for the supply with and disposal of water to the monastery and for power generation (mills)
• extensive pond management due to the fasting regulations
• granges, specialised farmyards with correspondingly large plots of land for agriculture and livestock breeding
• Large forests for the supply with timber and firewood
• Viticulture for religious purposes, but also for trade
  fruit and hop cultivation
• Town courts as trading branches for the surpluses

Background

With 17 partner sites from 5 European countries, the network Cisterscapes is applying for the transnational European Heritage Label.

Together, they are working on research, mediation and valorisation of the Cistercian influence on and shaping of central European landscapes.

In a series of short video clips, the partner sites present themselves as well as their motivation and commitment to get the label.