Robert of Molesme was a French monk born around 1028, known for founding the Cistercian order. He initially became a monk at the Abbey of Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire and later established a new monastery at Molesme in 1075, emphasizing a return to strict monastic discipline and simplicity. In 1098, seeking to further reform monastic life, Robert and a group of followers left Molesme to establish the Abbey of Cîteaux, which became the birthplace of the Cistercian movement. His efforts significantly influenced monastic practices in medieval Europe, promoting a lifestyle focused on prayer, work, and community.