From the Cloister to the City: Approaches to the Cistercian Land Management

A key insight from this study is that Cistercian monasteries in Portugal, particularly those founded or affiliated in the 12th century, played a significant role in shaping both monastic spaces and surrounding settlements. The research reveals that these monasteries were strategically located near water sources, not only for practical needs like hygiene and energy but also due to the symbolic importance of water in Cistercian culture. Additionally, the study highlights that some monasteries, such as the Monastery of Alcobaça, evolved into or influenced the development of nearby cities, demonstrating their adaptability and impact on territorial organization. The approach involved analyzing historical records, climatic influences, and legislative permissions for site changes, providing a comprehensive understanding of Cistercian land management in Portugal from the 12th century onward.

Martins, A. M. T. (2019). From the Cloister to the City: Approaches to the Cistercian Land Management. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 362(1), 12087. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/362/1/012087