The Abbey of St-Martin-du-Canigou in the Eastern Pyrenees by Hilke Maunder

The abbey Saint-Martin-du-Canigou sits majestically at an altitude of 1,094 metres in the picturesque Canigou massif of the Eastern Pyrenees. Its Lombard bell tower rises proudly above the Cady valley, on a rocky outcrop that can only be reached on foot from Casteil - a challenging hour's steep climb that rewards pilgrims.

The abbey, built by order of Count Guifred and his wife Guisla in 997, has miraculously survived the turmoil of history. It experienced its heyday in the 11th century, when Christian refugees sought refuge from the rise of Islam. However, with the change in geopolitical circumstances in the 12th century, the slow decline began. Until 1870, the abbey was nothing more than a picturesque ruin that captivated romantics.

It was saved by the Bishop of Perpignan in 1902, who bought the ruins and rebuilt them himself with the support of helpers and friends. After careful restoration by the Monuments Office, Saint-Martin-du-Canigou is now a living monastery once again.

The once strict Benedictines have made way for a diverse community - priests, sisters, single people and couples together form a "community of beatitudes", characterised by the spirit of the Second Vatican Council. Saint-Martin-du-Canigou is not only a place of history, but also a living testimony to the power of renewal and community - and a marvellous hiking destination!