Dambeck Abbey

The origins of Dambeck Monastery date back to 1224, when it was likely founded by a Count of Dannenberg. As a Benedictine nunnery belonging to the Diocese of Verden, it developed over centuries into an important spiritual center, with nuns often coming from regional noble families. In the early 16th century, it became the house monastery of the von der Schulenburg family. Following the Reformation around 1540/1541, secularization occurred, and the monastery was transformed into a state domain. Nevertheless, the convent continued to exist as an evangelical women's foundation until after 1671. During the Thirty Years' War, the complex was plundered around 1626. Later, from 1645, the property served to finance the Joachimsthalsches Gymnasium in Berlin. From 1750 onwards, the monastery was primarily used for agricultural purposes. After a period of decline in the 20th century, a brotherhood revitalized monastic life in 1991 and began extensive restoration work. Since 2023, the monastery has been managed by a family community.