Kloster Ihlow

Kloster Ihlow is a Cistercian monastery in Lower Saxony with a reconstructed vault structure made of steel and wood. This reconstruction reaches about 45 meters high and demonstrates what the original Gothic architecture looked like.

The monastery was founded in 1228 and developed into an important religious center in the region. Its dissolution came during the Reformation in 1529, when the site lost its function as an active monastery.

The garden displays herbs and plants that monks once grew and used in their daily work. Visitors can observe how these communities managed their lands and which species were important to their way of life.

The monastery shop is located in the historic forester's house and offers regional handicrafts. The best time to visit is Tuesday through Saturday or on Sunday, when the shop is open.

Beneath the reconstructed vault is an exhibition space displaying archaeological finds from the original medieval site. These objects show what remains of the monastery that was buried underground for centuries.

Location: Lower Saxony

Inception: 1228

GPS coordinates: 53.40420,7.45889

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42