Founding and Early Monastic Era (7th–9th Centuries)

Monastic Origins:

Lagrasse was established around 779 AD when Charlemagne authorized the founding of the Abbey of Sainte-Marie d’Orbieu (named after the river) under the Benedictine Rule. The abbey quickly grew wealthy through donations from local lords and the Count of Barcelona, amassing lands across Languedoc and Catalonia.

Strategic Importance:

By the 12th century, the abbey controlled vast territories, including dioceses in Toulouse and Béziers, and became a spiritual and economic powerhouse.

Medieval Prosperity and Cathar Crusades (12th–15th Centuries)

Cathar Conflict: During the Albigensian Crusade (1208–1229), the abbey profited from bounties and confiscated Cathar properties, further enriching its coffers.

Fortifications:

Wars like the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of Religion prompted the abbey to fortify its structures, including a new cloister and defensive walls.

Village Growth:

The medieval village of Lagrasse developed around the abbey, featuring landmarks like the Old Bridge (1303) and the Covered Market (1315), which became hubs for trade and crafts

Lagrasse’s name comes from Occitan La Grassa ("the fat"), a nod to its medieval prosperity under the abbey’s rule. The monks’ wealth from land, trade, and even Cathar bounties ensured villagers ate well—hence the playful nickname

The 1353 covered market stands on 10 stone pillars and hosted the region’s largest medieval market.

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