Prämonstratenserinnenabtei Flaesheim

The monastery of Flaesheim was founded in 1166 as a settlement for Premonstratensian nuns. Otto I of Ravensberg and his family provided the initial material basis, which was significantly expanded through further donations and purchases. By 1803, its possessions included 92 farms and cottages. Originally dedicated to Saint Mary, the patronage shifted from 1225 to Saint Mary Magdalene, who later became the sole patroness. The Vogt's rights over the monastery remained with the Counts of Ravensberg until 1240, after which this right passed to the Archbishops of Cologne. The institution was subordinate to the Abbot of Knechtsteden. In 1471, the convent comprised 21 nuns. In the 16th century, monastic discipline declined, leading to its transformation into a secular collegiate foundation for noblewomen around 1550. The Pope and the Archbishop of Cologne recognized this step by 1557. A later legal dispute with Knechtsteden Abbey concluded in 1671 with a settlement. The number of members decreased due to the Reformation; in 1558, there were only ten ladies. From 1615, admission was exclusively reserved for noblewomen. In 1790, a fire destroyed the abbey, and planned new constructions were never realized. The monastery was dissolved in 1808 during the secularization.

The former Flaesheim Abbey is located in the city of Recklinghausen in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

The Romanesque west tower was built after 1166, and the nave bays were constructed on older foundations in the first half of the 13th century. In the 15th century, a new choir with a 5/8-closure was added. Since its secularization, the former collegiate church has served as the parish church of St. Mary Magdalene.

• Sythen Castle (Castle, approx. 5487 m away)
• Malenburg Commandery (Monastery, approx. 5670 m away)
• Vogelsang Castle (Castle, approx. 6960 m away)
• Ostendorf Castle (Lippramsdorf) (Castle, approx. 8023 m away)