Steinfeld Abbey
Premonstratensian (former), Salvatorian (current)·Germany·Active Salvatorian convent and Basilica·12th century
Steinfeld Abbey, originally a Premonstratensian monastery founded in 1130, is now a Salvatorian convent in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It became a significant abbey in the German Empire and is home to an important basilica, which houses the tomb of Saint Hermann Joseph of Steinfeld and the renowned König Organ. After secularization in 1802, the conventual buildings were later acquired by the Salvatorians in 1923.
Key Facts
- ›Founded as a Premonstratensian monastery in 1130.
- ›Became an important abbey in the German Empire, establishing daughter houses across Europe.
- ›The basilica, built between 1142 and 1150, is one of the earliest vaulted churches in Germany.
- ›Contains the tomb of Saint Hermann Joseph of Steinfeld, a pilgrimage destination.
- ›Houses the significant Rhineland Baroque König Organ, built around 1600.
- ›Original cloister glass, made between 1526 and 1557, was sold and is now partly in the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque
Basilica, Tomb of Saint Hermann Joseph of Steinfeld, KöNig Organ, Cloister Glass, Hermann-Josef-Kolleg Steinfeld
Kloster Steinfeld
Saint Hermann Joseph of Steinfeld, Gerhard Remisch, M. R. James
- Secularization In 1802
- Acquisition By Salvatorians In 1923
- Basilica Status Granted As Papal Basilica Minor In 1960
About Steinfeld Abbey
Steinfeld Abbey, known in German as Kloster Steinfeld, is a historic monastic site located in Steinfeld, Kall, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Originally established as a Premonstratensian monastery in 1130, it evolved into a significant religious center within the German Empire, even founding several daughter houses across Europe. The abbey's operational status shifted significantly in 1802 when it was secularized, with its basilica becoming a parish church and the conventual buildings serving various secular purposes until 1923.
History and Transition
The site's origins trace back to around 920, with the first monastic settlement established in approximately 1070. The Premonstratensians significantly shaped the monastery, leading to its elevation to abbey status in 1184. Following secularization, the property was eventually acquired by the Salvatorians in 1923, and it currently functions as a Salvatorian convent.
The Basilica and Its Treasures
The Steinfeld Basilica, formerly the abbey church, is a remarkable structure built between 1142 and 1150, recognized as one of Germany's earliest vaulted churches. Its architecture showcases a rich history, displaying elements from Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods, along with modern additions. The basilica is a pilgrimage destination due to the tomb of Saint Hermann Joseph of Steinfeld, a revered Premonstratensian saint, commemorated by a 1732 alabaster effigy. The church also houses the König Organ, a celebrated example of Rhineland Baroque church organs, originally built around 1600 and extensively restored.
Artistic and Literary Connections
Steinfeld Abbey also holds historical significance for its cloister glass. The original Romanesque cloister was replaced by a Gothic one between 1492 and 1517. The stained glass windows, created between 1526 and 1557 by Gerhard Remisch, were dispersed after the dissolution, with some panels finding their way to various collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum. The renown of this glass inspired M. R. James's short ghost story, "The Treasure of Abbot Thomas," which is set at Steinfeld Abbey.
Modern Presence
Today, the monastery complex includes a gymnasium, the "Hermann-Josef-Kolleg Steinfeld," established in 1924, reflecting its continued role in education and community life. The basilica itself received the status of a papal basilica minor in 1960.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Steinfeld Abbey founded?
The origins of the site date back to about 920, with the first monastic settlement occurring around 1070. The Premonstratensians, who established the abbey, settled at Steinfeld in 1130 and it was raised to the status of an abbey in 1184.
What is the religious tradition of Steinfeld Abbey?
Steinfeld Abbey was originally a Premonstratensian monastery and is now a Salvatorian convent. The basilica was formerly the abbey church.
What is the architectural style of the basilica at Steinfeld Abbey?
The basilica features a mix of styles, beginning with Romanesque from its initial construction between 1142 and 1150. Subsequent additions and renovations have incorporated Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and modern elements.
Is Steinfeld Abbey still an active monastery?
While it was secularized in 1802, the conventual buildings were acquired by the Salvatorians in 1923, and it now functions as a Salvatorian convent, suggesting an active religious community.
What is significant about the König Organ at Steinfeld Abbey?
The König Organ is a highly significant church organ from the Rhineland Baroque period, built around 1600 with later additions. It was restored in 1981 and largely retains its original pipework, making it a notable example of historical organ craftsmanship.
Are there any famous figures associated with Steinfeld Abbey?
Yes, the tomb of Saint Hermann Joseph of Steinfeld, a popular Premonstratensian saint, is located in the basilica and is a pilgrimage destination. He is known for a legend involving offering an apple to the Christ Child.
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