“Ora et Labora”
Founded in 878, Saint Michel de Cuxa was rebuilt in the 940’s, but was much refurbished under Abbot Garin (a Cluniac monk) and the high altar was consecrated on Michaelmass Day in 974. It is this church that we see today – one of the masterpieces of early Romanesque architecture. Over the next two centuries, it was added to sumptuously.
By the 16th century, a decline was underway, and the abbey was sold at the time of the Revolution. From then on, its physical condition got worse, and bits of it were sold off to collectors and museums, especially in America.
In 1919, a Monsieur Trullès purchased the property with the intention of relodging a Cistercian Community there, who had been at Fontfroide but had been expelled as the result of the scandalous laws of 1905. This community came to Saint Michel de Cuxa in the 1920’s and stayed there until replaced by the Benedictines in 1965.
Not forever by still waters
would we idly rest and stay;
but would smite the living fountains
from the rocks along our way.
