Alpirsbach Abbey

Alpirsbach is a Benedictine monastery in the Black Forest featuring a late Gothic church, preserved residences and outbuildings, and a traditional cloister courtyard at its center. The complex follows the standard monastic layout with the church positioned to the east and covered walkways surrounding the main courtyard.

The monastery was established in 1095 when three counts donated land to create this religious community. The oldest surviving structure from this period displays the early Romanesque building style typical of that era.

The name reflects its founders' heritage, and the layout shows how Benedictine monks lived and worked in this community for centuries. Walking through the rooms and courtyards, you can sense the rhythm of monastic daily life.

The monastery is straightforward to visit, as it functions as a museum with most spaces open for self-guided exploration. During summer months, classical music concerts are held several times in the restored cloister, adding to the overall experience.

Excavations in 1958 uncovered personal items and clothing belonging to monks, now displayed in the museum collection. These discoveries offer rare glimpses into the everyday lives of the inhabitants from centuries past.