Aggsbach Charterhouse
Christian·Austria·former monastery; church is active parish church·14th century
Aggsbach Charterhouse was a former Carthusian monastery located in Aggsbach Dorf, Lower Austria. Founded in 1380, it was dissolved in 1782 as part of Emperor Joseph II's reforms. While most of the monastic complex was repurposed as a castle, the former Carthusian church, augmented with a tower, continues to serve as the local parish church.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1380 by Heidenreich von Maissau.
- ›Dissolved in 1782 due to reforms by Emperor Joseph II.
- ›Most of the original premises were converted into a castle.
- ›The Carthusian church, with an added tower, survives as the parish church.
- ›Located in Aggsbach Dorf, in the municipality of Schönbühel-Aggsbach.
Former Carthusian Church
Kartause Aggsbach
Heidenreich Von Maissau
Founding In 1380, Dissolution In 1782
About Aggsbach Charterhouse
Aggsbach Charterhouse (Kartause Aggsbach) was a monastery of the Carthusian Order situated in Aggsbach Dorf, within the municipality of Schönbühel-Aggsbach in Lower Austria. Its establishment dates to 1380, with Heidenreich von Maissau credited as its founder. The charterhouse operated for nearly four centuries before its dissolution in 1782, a consequence of the reform policies enacted by Emperor Joseph II.
History and Dissolution
The Carthusian way of life at Aggsbach concluded with the imperial reforms of Emperor Joseph II, which led to the suppression of numerous monastic institutions. Following its dissolution, the physical remnants of Aggsbach Charterhouse underwent significant transformation. The majority of the monastic complex was repurposed and converted into a castle. However, certain sections were incorporated into the adjacent farmstead belonging to the parish priest. Sadly, the specific structures of the monks' cells and the cloister were demolished.
Surviving Structures
Despite the extensive repurposing and demolition of much of the original monastic site, one key element of Aggsbach Charterhouse endures in a new capacity. The former Carthusian church, a testament to its ecclesiastical origins, has been preserved. With the addition of a tower, this structure now serves as the active parish church for the community of Aggsbach Dorf, continuing its role as a place of worship.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Aggsbach Charterhouse founded?
Aggsbach Charterhouse was founded in the year 1380. It was established by Heidenreich von Maissau.
Why was Aggsbach Charterhouse dissolved?
The monastery was dissolved in 1782 as a result of reforms initiated by Emperor Joseph II. These reforms led to the closure of many religious institutions.
What remains of Aggsbach Charterhouse today?
The most significant surviving structure is the former Carthusian church, which has been modified with the addition of a tower and now functions as the local parish church. Much of the rest of the monastery was demolished or repurposed.
What happened to the original monastery buildings?
Following its dissolution, the majority of the premises were transformed for use as a castle. Some smaller portions were integrated into the parish priest's farm, but the monks' cells and cloister were demolished.
Related Monasteries
Gaming Charterhouse
Gaming Charterhouse, also known as Kartause Maria Thron, is a former Carthusian monastery in Lower Austria. Founded in 1330 by Albert II, Duke of Austria, as a dynastic burial place, it was initially established with a larger community than typical for Carthusian houses. Dissolved in the late 18th century, the monastery complex has since undergone extensive restoration and now houses a hotel, a university campus, and a museum dedicated to its history.
Mauerbach Charterhouse
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Säusenstein Abbey
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