Speinshart Abbey

The foundation of Speinshart Monastery likely occurred around 1145 by the couple Adelvolk and Richenza von Reifenberg in the Spechtswald. The first Premonstratensians probably came from Wilten Monastery, with their presence in Speinshart first documented in 1181. In the 15th century, under Provost Georg Ochs von Gunzendorf, the monastery was elevated to an abbey. The Reformation led to the suppression of Catholic doctrine in 1556 and to secularization. In 1661, Premonstratensians from Steingaden Monastery returned, and in 1691, Speinshart regained its abbey status. Under the direction of Wolfgang Dientzenhofer, a new church building was constructed, with its interior designed by the brothers Carlo Domenico and Bartolomeo Lucchese.