University
MonasteryWitzenhausen
Wilhelmitenkloster Witzenhausen
The former Wilhelmitenkloster in Witzenhausen, a cultural monument in Hesse, presents itself as a historic sacred building with a rich and varied past. Originally founded as a Cistercian nunnery, it later housed the Order of the Wilhelmites and today stands as a testament to medieval architecture in the Werra-Meissner region.
History+
The origins of the monastery date back to 1275, when nuns from Anrode Abbey established the Abbey of Saint Nicholas just outside the gates of Witzenhausen. However, this early community existed only until 1291. Subsequently, Wilhelmites took over the monastery, relocating their site to the inner city in 1358. The Gothic structure, whose foundation is dated to 1270, was used by this order until its secularization in 1528.
Location+
The former monastery is situated in the town of Witzenhausen, within the Werra-Meissner district of northern Hesse, a region in the federal state of Hesse, Germany.
On site+
Of the original Gothic Wilhelmiten monastery, significant parts such as the chapter house, church portal, and refectory are still preserved on Steinstraße. These historic premises now serve the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences at the University of Kassel, thus being integrated into a modern educational institution.
Nearby+
- Ermschwerd Castle (Castle, approx. 3060 m away)
- Arnstein Castle (Eichenberg) (Castle, approx. 3783 m away)
- Ludwigstein Castle (Castle, approx. 4243 m away)
- Hanstein Castle Ruin (Castle, approx. 5612 m away)
Take Mobile History with you
You are reading this text for free. Premium adds what matters on the road: descriptions read aloud, sites found through your camera, whole regions taken offline.
- Every description, including the ~17,700 Premium sites
- Audio guide: have descriptions read to you on location
- AR finder: see sites through your camera, with distance and bearing
- Unlimited saved sites
14 days free, then from €2.99 a month. Cancel anytime.
Location: 51.3439, 9.8597