Roma Abbey, Cistercian monastery ruins in Roma, Gotland, Sweden
Roma Abbey consists of monastery ruins featuring a three-nave basilica with a transept, displaying the typical architectural style of medieval Cistercian design. The complex reveals the layout and structural organization of a religious community that flourished here centuries ago.
The monastery was founded in 1164 by monks from Nydala in Småland and became one of Sweden's wealthiest religious houses by the 1200s. This prosperity left its mark on the building's scale and the monastery's influence across Gotland.
The name reflects the monks' connection to Rome and Christian tradition they brought to this island. You can sense how this location once served as a spiritual center for the surrounding community.
The site is publicly accessible and maintained by the National Property Board of Sweden, with information panels explaining the monastery's history and layout. Wear appropriate footwear and bring weather-ready clothing, as the ruins are outdoors and paths can be uneven.
The monastery walls now serve as a stage for annual Shakespeare performances, transforming the historical ruins into a modern venue for summer theater. This unexpected use brings the stones back to life each season with live performances.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
