Benediktbeuern Abbey

About

Founded around 740, Benediktbeuern’s idyllic country setting exudes tranquility. Having suffered four serious fires, in 1248, 1377, 1378, and 1490, the abbey was prosperous enough to re-build each time, creating a unique blend of medieval, gothic, and baroque architecture. It was a successful research institution for centuries, focusing on the study of languages, music, mathematics and botany, with a library covering the span of higher education as it then existed. The Carmina Burana, a manuscript of 254 poems and dramatic texts, mostly from the 11th or 12th century, was found in the monastery in 1803. You’re probably familiar with ‘O Fortuna’, which has been used in countless movies and TV shows. Please note: due to the damage from a hailstorm in August 2023, the Monastery areas are not entirely accessible. They still offer guided tours of the premises on request, and more detailed information can be found on their website: https://www.benediktbeuern.de/english/monastery/. Please consult the website for the most up-to-date information on their renovations and accessibility.