It remains one of the few active Cistercian monasteries globally that has not seen an interruption in its community life since its medieval foundation.
The onsite museum holds one of the most comprehensive collections of historical regional textiles and 'Hinterglasmalerei' (reverse glass painting) in Bavaria.
The architecture reflects several centuries of adaptation, featuring significant Baroque interior elements installed during 18th-century renovations.
The surrounding landscape is part of a protected nature park, limiting modern development around the abbey walls.
The nunnery operates a shop selling products made by the sisters and locally sourced monastery goods.
Oberschönenfeld Abbey is a Cistercian convent located in the heart of the Augsburg Western Woods Nature Park. Founded in 1211, it is the oldest continuously active Cistercian nunnery in the world. The complex houses the Museum Oberschönenfeld, which specializes in Swabian folk art, culture, and rural history. The site includes a Baroque church that serves as the spiritual centerpiece for the monastic community. Visitors can explore a natural history exhibition and a dedicated gallery space within the grounds. The abbey maintains a traditional cloister garden that supplies the nuns with herbs and produce. It functions as a center for both religious reflection and regional cultural education.
The main gate entrance looking toward the historic facade of the abbey church.
Visit the museum before the abbey church to better understand the historical context of the local region.
Check the abbey's official events calendar for seasonal workshops or concerts held in the museum courtyard.
Follow the designated nature trails through the Augsburg Western Woods that start immediately outside the abbey walls.
Do not wander into the private cloister areas reserved for the nuns.
The museum is typically closed on Mondays.
Maintain silence inside the church; photography is generally prohibited in active prayer areas.
