Kremsmünster Abbey
Kremsmünster Abbey is a historic Benedictine monastery in Kremsmünster, Upper Austria, founded in 777 AD. Renowned for its rich history, significant library, and architectural grandeur, it has been a center of learning and religious observance for over a millennium. Despite facing periods of decline and destruction, the abbey was consistently re-established and flourished, particularly after adopting reforms and undergoing extensive Baroque renovations.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 777 AD by Tassilo III, Duke of Bavaria, on the legendary site of his son's fatal hunting accident.
- ›The monastic library is one of Austria's great libraries, housing approximately 160,000 volumes, 1,700 manuscripts, and nearly 2,000 incunabula.
- ›Notable treasures include the Tassilo Chalice, Tassilo Candlesticks, and the Codex Millenarius, a Gospel Book from around 800 AD.
- ›The abbey church was completed in 1277 in late Romanesque and early Gothic styles, later remodelled in the Baroque style.
- ›The monastery boasts a significant astronomical observatory, the Kremsmünster Sternwarte, located in the Mathematical Tower.
- ›Kremsmünster has been a member of the Austrian Congregation within the Benedictine Confederation since 1625.
Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque
Monastic Library With 160,000 Volumes, Astronomical Observatory, Tassilo Chalice, Codex Millenarius, Grave of Gunther
Stift KremsmüNster
Tassilo Iii, Duke of Bavaria, Gunther, Fateric, Charlemagne, Saint Gotthard, Altmann of Passau, Ulrich Schoppenzaun, Johann Schreiner, Gregor Lechner, Weiner, Wolfradt, Placid Buchauer, Alexander Fixlmillner, Placidus Fixlmillner, Thomas Mitterndorfer, CöLestin Ganglbauer, Leander Czerny, Adalbert Stifter, Carlo Antonio Carlone, Giovanni Battista Colomba, Giovanni Battista Barberini, Johann Andreas Wolf, Johann Michael ZüRn the Younger
- Founded 777 Ad
- Destroyed In the 10th Century
- Restored Under Emperor Henry Ii
- Reformed With Cluniac Observance
- Survived the Reformation
- Threatened With Closure By Emperor Joseph Ii
- Suffered During the Napoleonic Wars
- Capitulation of the Exiled Slovak Government On May 8, 1945
About Kremsmünster Abbey
Kremsmünster Abbey (German: Stift Kremsmünster) is a historically significant Benedictine monastery situated in Kremsmünster, Upper Austria. Its origins trace back to 777 AD when it was founded by Tassilo III, Duke of Bavaria, on a site steeped in legend concerning his son's fatal hunting accident. Over the centuries, the abbey has been a prominent center for religious life, scholarship, and art.
History and Development
The abbey's early years saw it receive substantial endowments and its abbots wield considerable influence, even exercising episcopal jurisdiction. Despite destruction in the 10th century, it was restored and later revitalized with Cluniac reforms, becoming renowned as one of Germany's most flourishing monastic houses. Its library was a notable hub for scholars, producing important historical works. The abbey navigated challenges such as the Reformation and the policies of Emperor Joseph II, with periods of significant growth and scholarly output, particularly during the Baroque era.
Architecture and Treasures
From the mid-17th century, Kremsmünster underwent extensive construction, resulting in a vast complex second only to Melk Abbey in size within Austria. The architecture notably features Baroque elements, especially in the abbey church, which was remodelled and redecorated extensively between the 17th and early 18th centuries. The abbey is home to priceless treasures, including the Tassilo Chalice, dating from the late 8th century, the Tassilo Candlesticks, and the Codex Millenarius, an early Gospel Book. The prominent Mathematical Tower houses an astronomical observatory, established in the 18th century, which has been a site of scientific pursuit.
Modern Significance
Kremsmünster Abbey continues to function as an active Benedictine community, maintaining its traditions of education and pastoral care. It is also a significant cultural and historical site, attracting visitors interested in its rich past, architectural splendor, and valuable collections. The abbey's history, however, is also marked by later revelations of historical child abuse within its boarding school, which have been subject to investigation and legal proceedings.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Kremsmünster Abbey founded?
Kremsmünster Abbey was founded in 777 AD by Tassilo III, Duke of Bavaria. The legend states it was established on the spot where his son, Gunther, was mortally wounded by a wild boar.
What are some of the most important treasures housed at Kremsmünster Abbey?
Among the most famous treasures are the Tassilo Chalice, a copper and silver-gilt goblet donated by the founder, the Tassilo Candlesticks, and the Codex Millenarius, an 800 AD Gospel Book. These items are still used in religious services on special occasions.
What is the architectural style of the Kremsmünster Abbey church?
The abbey church was initially completed in 1277 in the late Romanesque and early Gothic styles. After 1613, it underwent significant remodelling in the Baroque style, with its interior redecorated between 1680 and 1720.
What is the significance of the Mathematical Tower at Kremsmünster Abbey?
The Mathematical Tower, which is 51 meters high, houses the Kremsmünster Sternwarte, the abbey's astronomical observatory. It also contains a collection of natural history objects and fish-tanks decorated with statues.
Does Kremsmünster Abbey have an active monastic community?
Yes, Kremsmünster Abbey maintains an active Benedictine community. The monks continue to be involved in education, running a school, and pastoral care.
What historical events have occurred at Kremsmünster Abbey?
The abbey was destroyed in the 10th century and later restored. It played a role in preserving Catholicism during the Reformation and was threatened with closure by Emperor Joseph II. Towards the end of World War II, the exiled Slovak government capitulated there to Allied forces.
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