Introduction
Understanding the place
Maria Laach is an active Benedictine abbey, known for its six tower Romanesque church, cloister-paradis and its surroundings on the banks of the Laacher See.
To be retained
- Abbaye Benedictine active
- Major Romanesque architecture
- Spirituality of the daily rhythm
- Modern history to be examined with nuance
History and context
Founded in 1093, the abbey was abolished during the secularization of 1802. After a Jesuit period, Benedictines restored it to the end of the 19th century. In the 20th century, Maria Laach played a role in the liturgical movement, while the attitudes of some members towards national socialism were critically examined.
Why is this place spiritual?
The Benedictine rule combines prayer, work, reading and hospitality. The place allows to observe a rhythmic community spirituality, rather than a simple search for exceptional emotions.
What the landscape makes you feel
The approach by the lake and then the entrance into the courtyard of "Paradise" create a smooth transition. The towers and the volumes of the novels form a very balanced whole.
Energy, atmosphere and feelings
The calm comes from the landscape, architecture and monastic rhythms. The lake is volcanic origin, which does not establish a particular spiritual energy.
Discover with respect
- Respect monastic schedules and private areas.
- Do not evade the complex history of the 20th century.
- Distinguish volcanic geology and energy interpretation.
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