The foundation of Tiron Abbey by Bernard of Abbeville was part of wider movements of monastic reform in Europe in the eleventh and twelfth centuries. As a pre-Cistercian reformer, Bernard’s intention was to restore the asceticism and strict observance of the Rule of St. Benedict in monastic life, insisting on manual labour.
He founded his monastery on land in Thiron-Gardais granted to him by Bishop Ivo of Chartres, and placed it under the protection of the cathedral canons of Chartres, instead of a secular over lord. This assured that decisions affecting the Abbey were made by a corporate religious body.
Bernard admitted artisans and encouraged them to produce goods for sale. During years of famine, Tiron endured great poverty and became a refugee camp and soup kitchen. During the famine of 1109-1111 the Abbey sheltered whole families. Tiron had a school; and after Bernard’s death, built houses so that lay women could reside within its walls under the care and protection of the monks.
The Sacred Garden 