Beinwil Abbey

Beinwil Abbey is a Benedictine monastery in the Thierstein district of Solothurn canton, featuring stone walls, a restored church, and monastic buildings arranged around a central courtyard. Beyond the main church, the property includes residential quarters for the community and substantial outbuildings that support the abbey's daily operations.

The monastery was founded around 1100 and suffered a devastating fire in 1445 during territorial conflicts between Solothurn and Basel over claims involving the Counts of Thierstein. This destruction marked a critical moment in the abbey's early history, yet prompted reconstruction efforts that shaped the structure visitors see today.

The abbey church reflects a shared spiritual space where Catholic and Orthodox communities gather for their respective services in separate areas. Visitors notice this coexistence when moving through the interior and seeing how both traditions maintain their own ritual practices within the same building.

The abbey is open for visitors who wish to explore the monastery grounds or attend services in the main church. Overnight stays in guest rooms are available, though advance arrangement is advisable to secure a room.

The monastery underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming an Orthodox monastery in 2019 while continuing to serve as a Catholic parish church. This shift demonstrates how a historical institution can adapt to serve new spiritual communities without abandoning its original purpose.