Until 1892, they were based at an abbey in northwest France, the name of which gave this group its common name.  Today, they are scattered throughout the world and can be reco
Until 1892, they were based at an abbey in northwest France, the name of which gave this group its common name.  Today, they are scattered throughout the world and can be recognized by their habit:  white with a black scapular.  Their proper name is the Cistercians of the Strict Observance.  FTP name this order, the most famous latter day member of which was Thomas Merton, who before the 1960s spent their lives in perpetual silence.
Until 1892, they were based at an abbey in northwest France, the name of which gave this group its common name.  
Trappists (prompt on early buzz of Cistercians of the Strict Observance)