Engelthal Abbey (Altenstadt)

The foundation of Kloster Engelthal dates back to 1268. It was established as a Cistercian nunnery and dedicated to Assumptio Mariae, Peter, and Paul. Until its dissolution in 1803, the Cistercian order shaped monastic life. During the Thirty Years' War, the complex suffered severe damage, leading to an extensive reconstruction phase between 1666 and 1750 in the late Baroque style. During this period, the monastery acquired its present architectural form, including the church, convent, and economic buildings, as well as an abbess's residence. The secularization in 1803 brought an end to the Cistercian nunnery. In 1952, the Diocese of Mainz acquired the cloister area, and in 1962, the complex was re-inhabited by Benedictine nuns of the Beuron Congregation, who elevated the monastery to an abbey again in 1965.