The site is symbolically considered the cradle of champagne. Hautvillers Abbey was founded in 650 by Saint Nivard, Archbishop of Reims. A prophetic dove is said to have indicated him a location where he had to create a new monastery. The abbey welcomed Dom Pérignon (1638-1715), whose life is closely associated with the creation of champagne wine. Thanks to him, the church became famous and prosperous as its wines were enjoyed at the royal court. Hautvillers Abbey is now the property of the Moët & Chandon house. In 2012, its cloister was restored, and the Porte Saint-Hélène (Saint Helen's Gate) was rebuilt identically.