Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Priory of Mouthier-Haute-Pierre, founded around 618 by Saint Eustache (abbé de Luxeuil), was mentioned as one of the most important of Burgundy as early as 870. Located in Cluny in 1120, the abbey was rebuilt in the 13th century and restored in the 16th century by Antoine Perrenot de Granvelle, who added the church building. A fire in 1719 destroyed the church, rebuilt in 1724 before being partially demolished in 1793 during the Revolution.

The current remains include the cloister, the religious and prior quarters, which were listed as historical monuments in 1996. The Priory, a private property since the 19th century, was completely restored in 2017. It now houses a museum space dedicated to Comtois painters (XIX-XX century) and offers a historical route covering the chapter hall, vaulted cellars and gardens.

The cartrier reveals the land and vineyards offered by the House of Montgesoye in the 10th century. Among the outstanding priors, Aymé de Montmartin freed the inhabitants in 1365, while Antoine Perrenot de Granvelle (1550-1581) rebuilt the buildings in ruins. The priory illustrates the clunisian influence in Franche-Comté, between spirituality, seigneurial power and architectural heritage.

The architecture combines elements from the 13th, 16th and 18th centuries: a square cloister bordered by arcades, conventual buildings with panelled decorations, and painted mists. The church's pulpit, which was destroyed in 1793, is now preserved in the parish church of St. Lawrence. The site, partially open to the public since 2025, bears witness to eight centuries of monastic and regional history.

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