Construction of the priory church began in 979-985, and the monastery is one of the oldest Cluniac monastic communities.
The church was listed as a historic monument in 1955.
The priory numbered over 20 monks in the 16th century, a rare occurrence in Auvergne.
The prior of Ris was considered one of the most important lords in the diocese of Clermont. Little by little, the village grew around the monastery, covering some 13 hectares.
The church tower was destroyed during the French Revolution.
The church's real name appears to be Sainte-Croix, but it is listed in the Mérimée database as Sainte-Agathe.