Szentgotthárd Abbey, Baroque Cistercian abbey in Szentgotthárd, Hungary.
Szentgotthárd Abbey is a Baroque monastery featuring a large church with ornate frescoes and altars throughout its interior. The complex connects the monastic quarters directly to the main church in a unified architectural design.
King Béla III founded the original monastery in 1183, bringing twelve Cistercian monks from France to develop the region and establish monastic life. These monks shaped the community and its religious practices for centuries afterward.
The name comes from Saint Gotthard, whose legend links him to the region's protection and spiritual identity. Inside, you can see religious artworks that reflect this connection to local devotion and faith.
The complex now serves as a Roman Catholic parish church and welcomes visitors during service hours. It is best to check local visiting times in advance, as access may be limited during religious ceremonies.
Fragments of the original medieval choir remain visible within the monastery walls, where they were preserved during later renovations. These older structures reveal how the building evolved across different periods.
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