Monastery Our Lady of the Atlas, Trappist monastery in Tibhirine, Algeria
Monastery Our Lady of the Atlas is a stone structure in the Atlas Mountains containing a chapel, living quarters, and agricultural buildings arranged across multiple levels. The grounds feature terraced gardens that supported the community's self-sufficiency.
The monastery was founded in 1938 as an extension of Staoueli Abbey, establishing a center of Catholic presence in Algeria. It served this role until tragic events in 1996 dramatically altered the community's trajectory.
The monks maintained close ties with local Muslim residents through agricultural training, medical care, and regular gatherings at the monastery gates. This daily cooperation shaped life in the region and demonstrated a lived coexistence between communities.
Access to the monastery requires special permits from religious authorities, as it remains under the care of the Chemin Neuf Community. Visitors must arrange visits in advance and should expect limited access during certain times.
The monastery grounds contain the burial site of seven Trappist monks who were kidnapped and killed during the Algerian Civil War in 1996. Today this place serves as a memorial to those who lost their lives during that turbulent period.
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