Founded in the 10th century, the Abbey of Cluny was a spiritual capital which exercised considerable influence throughout the Middle Ages. Its role as peacemaker in the feudal world contributed to the establishing of European culture. Its abbots included major figures such as Peter the Venerable. Although demolished in large part during the French Revolution, the abbey retains vestiges revealing its colossal size and past splendour. Surrounded by its monastic town, the site incorporates numerous medieval buildings, a collection of Romanesque sculptures unique in Europe, as well as a wealth of evidence from successive centuries.