Graukloster, Medieval monastery and town hall in Schleswig, Germany
Graukloster is a former Franciscan monastery and current town hall in Schleswig featuring Gothic halls and wall paintings from the 13th century. The complex integrates medieval architecture with modern administrative functions within its historic spaces.
The monastery was founded in 1234 as St. Paul's Cloister and served as an important gathering place for Franciscan regional meetings. After the Reformation around 1528, it transformed into a shelter for the poor and eventually became the city's administrative center.
The name Graukloster refers to the gray robes worn by the Franciscan friars who inhabited this place. The building still carries visible marks of the religious community that shaped its character for centuries.
The building is accessible through guided tours available at specific times during the week, allowing visitors to view the Gothic architecture and medieval wall paintings. It is advisable to check opening times in advance and book tours beforehand.
The building contains remnants of a medieval hypocaust heating system, an ancient heating method that reveals how advanced the technology of the religious community was. These underground heat-pipe structures are a rare example of medieval engineering skill.
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