aventuro Back to map A
Temples

St. Peter

4.7 · 426 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
St. Peter, Klosterhof 2, 79271 St. Peter
Interesting facts
1

The abbey church contains the ancestral crypt of the House of Zähringen, a powerful medieval dynasty in southwestern Germany.

2

The interior frescoes depict the history of the Benedictine Order and the lives of various saints.

3

The monastery’s library hall is renowned for its light-filled design and intricately carved wooden shelves.

4

The current Baroque structure was built between 1724 and 1727 under the direction of architect Peter Thumb.

Overview

St. Peter Abbey, located in the Black Forest, is a former Benedictine monastery known for its striking Baroque architecture. The abbey church, dedicated to St. Peter, features a distinctive interior dominated by white stucco and elaborate frescoes painted by Franz Joseph Spiegler. The library within the complex is considered one of the most significant examples of southern German Rococo design. The site serves as a spiritual and cultural focal point in the village of St. Peter. It historically functioned as the burial place for the Zähringen dukes, who founded the monastery in the 11th century. The current buildings largely date from the 18th-century reconstruction following a fire.

Photo spot

The central nave of the abbey church looking toward the altar to capture the stucco work.

Insider tips

Explore the surrounding village gardens for views of the abbey's exterior architecture.

Look for the small museum section that often hosts exhibits on regional history and religious art.

Check the local parish calendar as the church remains an active place of worship and may be closed to tourists during private ceremonies.

What to avoid

Attempting to enter the monastery buildings during scheduled church services or private religious events.

Good to know

The church may be restricted during active religious services, weddings, or funerals.

Etiquette

Maintain silence as it is a place of worship; remove head coverings and dress modestly.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for clear lighting in the library and surrounding landscape.
Address
St. Peter, Klosterhof 2, 79271 St. Peter
48.017, 8.032
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleBaroque and Rococo
Key featureLibrary hall and Zähringen crypt

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for clear lighting in the library and surrounding landscape..

The central nave of the abbey church looking toward the altar to capture the stucco work.

Close by you'll find Abbey of Saint Peter in the Black Forest, Freiburg Cathedral, Vogesenkapelle.