Top 10 Medieval Monasteries in Europe

Medieval Europe was a time of great religious devotion, and monasteries played a central role in the spiritual and cultural life of the continent.


Tatev Medieval Monastery

These monastic institutions were not only places of worship but also centers of learning, art, and social welfare.

Today, many of these medieval monasteries stand as architectural marvels and historical treasures. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 medieval monasteries in Europe.


1. Mont Saint-Michel

– Location: Normandy, France
– Mont Saint-Michel is a breathtaking island abbey that rises dramatically from the sea. It was founded in the 8th century and is a stunning example of medieval Gothic architecture.


2. Cluny Abbey

– Location: Cluny, France
– Founded in 910, Cluny Abbey was once the largest church in the world. It was the spiritual center of the influential Cluniac order and played a key role in European monasticism.


3. Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes

– Location: Toledo, Spain
– Built in the late 15th century, this Spanish monastery is known for its striking Gothic and Mudejar architecture. It was established to celebrate a victory and honor the Catholic Monarchs.


4. Melk Abbey

– Location: Melk, Austria
– Melk Abbey is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Founded in the 11th century, it overlooks the Danube River and houses a remarkable library and art collection.


5. Meteora Monasteries

– Location: Meteora, Greece
– Perched atop towering rock formations, the Meteora monasteries are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 14th century, they are known for their breathtaking location and remarkable frescoes.


6. Monastery of Alcobaça

– Location: Alcobaça, Portugal
– Founded in 1153, this Cistercian monastery is a stunning example of Portuguese Gothic architecture. It houses the tombs of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro.

https://youtu.be/tydtRyTB1hM?feature=shared

7. St. Gallen Abbey

– Location: St. Gallen, Switzerland
– St. Gallen Abbey, founded in the 8th century, is famous for its library, which contains a vast collection of medieval manuscripts. Its architecture is a blend of styles from different centuries.


8. Monte Oliveto Maggiore

– Location: Tuscany, Italy
– This Italian Benedictine monastery, founded in the 14th century, is known for its beautiful frescoes by Luca Signorelli and Il Sodoma, depicting scenes from the life of Saint Benedict.


9. Kloster Eberbach

– Location: Hesse, Germany
– Kloster Eberbach is a former Cistercian monastery founded in 1136. It is renowned for its Romanesque and early Gothic architecture and its association with winemaking.


10. Iona Abbey

– Location: Isle of Iona, Scotland
– Founded in the 6th century by Saint Columba, Iona Abbey is one of the oldest Christian religious centers in Western Europe. It played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in Scotland.



These medieval monasteries in Europe offer a glimpse into the spiritual, architectural, and cultural heritage of the continent.

They stand as enduring monuments to the dedication and craftsmanship of the monks who inhabited them and continue to inspire awe and reverence among visitors from around the world.