Ihr Traumurlaub im Schwarzwald
Bereitgestellt von www.schwarzwald.de

Kloster Alpirsbach

Kloster Alpirsbach in the Kinzigtal

Alpirsbach Monastery, an impressive medieval building, is idyllically situated in the upper Kinzig valley of the Black Forest. As one of the few remaining monasteries of its kind in southwest Germany, it offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history of the Benedictines and the architecture of the Hirsau reform movement.

History and architecture
The monastery was founded by noblemen in 1095 and built by Benedictine monks. The seclusion of the location was deliberately chosen in order to adhere to the strict rules of St. Benedict. The first stone monastery church was consecrated as early as 1099, although the tower of the original Leutkirche church has been preserved to this day and is considered the oldest evidence of the structural development.

The monastery complex follows the typical Benedictine building pattern. The east-facing church is flanked by the enclosure, which was the monks' working and living area. The well-preserved cloister from the 15th century gives an impression of the ascetic life of the monks.

Special features and sights
Alpirsbach Monastery is characterized by several architectural features:

  • The mighty Romanesque monastery church
  • The late Gothic cloister
  • The former castle, a residential tower of the monastery bailiffs with late Romanesque features
  • Insights into the everyday life of a historic monastery school
Location and surroundings
Today, the monastery is located in the middle of the town of Alpirsbach, a climatic health resort in the upper Kinzig valley. The original monastic enclosure wall no longer exists and some of the historic buildings had to make way for the construction of the railroad and the main road in the 19th century. Nevertheless, the monastery complex has been preserved as an impressive ensemble and has dominated the center of the town for over 900 years.

Activities for visitors
Visitors to Alpirsbach Monastery can take part in various activities:
  1. guided tours of the historic monastery complex
  2. visit the Romanesque monastery church
  3. exploration of the late Gothic cloisters
  4. insights into the history of the monastery school
  5. walks in the charming natural surroundings of the Kinzig valley

How to get there
Alpirsbach Monastery is easy to reach:
  • By car via the main road, which runs directly past the monastery
  • By train to Alpirsbach train station, which is located near the monastery
  • For hikers and cyclists, the picturesque paths along the Kinzig river are ideal


Alpirsbach Monastery in the Kinzig Valley is a fascinating excursion destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts and nature lovers. It uniquely combines the rich cultural history of the Black Forest with the breathtaking landscape of the region. A visit is worthwhile at any time of year and offers insights into the centuries-old tradition of monastic life amidst the idyllic Black Forest scenery.

The beautiful medieval monastery Alpirsbach is located in the Kinzigtal in the Black Forest. Let yourself be enchanted and go back to the 11th century.
Admire the most beautiful monuments in Baden-Württemberg or marvel at the more spectacular finds in the monastery museum.

More information: https://www.kloster-alpirsbach.de/start

Photo credit
State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Württemberg, Achim Mende