Saint John's Abbey

Saint John's Abbey is a Benedictine monastery in Collegeville featuring buildings from different eras, with older structures standing alongside newer constructions. The chapel and surrounding complex were designed with both brick and concrete in a modern style that contrasts with the earlier Victorian elements.

German Benedictine monks founded the monastery in 1856 as a center for religious education in the region. Over time, the community grew and shaped the development of the surrounding area.

The monastery serves the community through regular worship services and gatherings where visitors and monks come together in shared spiritual practice. The chapel's simple forms and expansive windows create a space where people of different backgrounds connect.

Visitors can explore the grounds throughout the year and attend services in the chapel to experience the monastic routine. Guided tours of the complex provide insight into the architecture and how the monks live their daily lives.

The monastery houses one of North America's largest libraries with an important collection of religious manuscripts and theological texts. This collection draws scholars from around the world and makes the site a significant center for research and learning.

Location: Collegeville

Inception: 1856

Founders: Saint Vincent Archabbey

Architects: Marcel Breuer

Architectural style: Victorian architecture

Website: https://saintjohnsabbey.org

GPS coordinates: 45.58028,-94.39222

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03