St. Mang's Abbey, Benedictine monastery in Füssen, Germany
St. Mang's Abbey is a monastery complex in Füssen featuring a Baroque church decorated with marble and a distinctive oval library rotunda. The complex also includes a ceremonial hall overlooking a spacious courtyard.
The monastery was founded in 801 and underwent major renovation between 1701 and 1726 under architect Johann Jakob Herkomer, who introduced Venetian architectural elements. This rebuilding period defined the complex's appearance today.
The site is dedicated to Saint Magnus of Füssen, whose veneration remains visible today through the chapel beneath the organ loft where pilgrims still visit. The rooms carry traces of this tradition and connect religious heritage with the daily life of the town.
The site functions as both the Catholic Parish Church and the Town Museum, allowing visitors to explore religious and historical exhibits in one location. It is easily accessible on foot and suitable for a half-day visit.
The oval library connects to the refectory through an architectural feature called an oculus, which demonstrates an innovative response to the hillside location. This thoughtful connection showcases creative problem-solving in the complex's design.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.