Bergkloster Bestwig

The establishment of the monastery in Bestwig was a direct consequence of Germany's division. Initially, the motherhouse of the Sisters' congregation was situated in Heiligenstadt, Eichsfeld. Due to political developments in the GDR and increasing difficulties in maintaining connections with Western German and Latin American branches, the General Council decided to relocate the headquarters to West Germany. This plan became more urgent after the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961. Construction of the monastery and school commenced in 1965, following land acquisitions that began in 1962. The Sisters moved into the new building in 1968. The Holy Trinity Church, the heart of the complex, was consecrated in 1971. In 2002/2003, the East and West German provinces, along with the Dutch province, were merged to form the European Province, with Bestwig as its seat. Approximately 70 Sisters currently reside at the monastery.

The Bergkloster Bestwig is situated in the municipality of Bestwig within the Hochsauerlandkreis, a region in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

Today, the Bergkloster Bestwig is a vibrant place with diverse functions. It is the seat of the European Province of the Sisters of St. Maria Magdalena Postel. The vocational college Bergkloster Bestwig, which enrolls around 600 students and trains educators among others, is part of the monastery complex. An affiliated educational academy for therapy professions is also present. Furthermore, the complex includes the Julie-Postel-Haus, a senior living community, an occupational therapy practice, and a guesthouse with approximately 90 beds. The monastery also offers courses, seminars, and retreats, and with around 200 employees, it is a significant employer in the municipality.

• Haus Ostwig (castle, approx. 772 m away)
• Schloss Gevelinghausen (castle, approx. 2452 m away)
• Schloss Schellenstein (castle, approx. 4041 m away)
• Schloss Antfeld (castle, approx. 4601 m away)