Ettal Abbey, Benedictine monastery in Ettal, Germany
Ettal Abbey is a Benedictine monastery founded in 1330 in the Graswang valley. Its Baroque church, rebuilt after a 1744 fire to plans by Enrico Zuccalli, has a broad green double-shelled dome with a lantern and golden cross, flanked by two towers with dark onion cupolas; the right tower carries a clock. The white facade with pale stone trim has arched windows, columns and statues in niches.
A German emperor founded the monastery in 1330 on a major trade route between Italy and Augsburg. This location made it a significant center for religious life and economic activity in the region.
The abbey's name comes from the Ettal Madonna, a marble statuette of the Madonna and Child brought from Pisa by Emperor Ludwig in 1330. Pilgrims venerate it in the church, and the monastery also produces Ettaler Kloster Liqueur, a herbal liqueur sold in yellow and green varieties.
The basilica is open to visitors during daylight hours with free access to the interior. Tours of the brewery and distillery can be arranged on site to see the monks' craft work.
A marble statue of Mary brought from Pisa by the founder stands at the heart of the church and draws pilgrims from afar. Many visitors come specifically to see this figure, which has been honored here since the monastery's beginning.
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