Mariawald Abbey Audio Guide

Mariawald Abbey: what does the audio guide cover?

1. 01

   Welcome to Mariawald Abbey

   You are standing deep within the Kermeter forest, part of the stunning Eifel National Park, at the historic Mariawald Abbey. As you look at the white walls and the quiet courtyard, try to imagine the centuries of silence that once defined this place. Founded originally as a Cistercian priory in 1486, this site was chosen precisely for its isolation—a place where monks could live out the motto of 'Ora et Labora,' or 'Pray and Work.' The air here feels different, doesn't it? Crisp, cool, and carries the scent of ancient oaks. You are currently and physically at the only former Trappist monastery in Germany, located roughly 417 meters above the village of Heimbach. While the monks may have recently departed, the spiritual energy and the historical weight of their 700 year presence still resonate in every stone and shadow.

2. 02

   The Last of the Trappists

   For over 150 years, this was a place of extreme devotion. The Trappists, also known as Cistercians of the Strict Observance, settled here in 1860. These men were famous for their vow of silence, communicating only through a complex system of hand signals when necessary. In a surprising twist of modern history, the abbey gained international attention in the early twenty-first century when it became the only Trappist monastery to return to the ancient Latin Tridentine Mass in 2008. However, tradition alone could not stop the march of time. Due to an aging community with an average age of 81 and a lack of new novices, the monastery officially closed its doors as a religious community in September 2018. Today, the buildings are managed by a trust, ensuring that the 'Spirit of Mariawald' continues to welcome visitors despite the departure of the brothers.

3. 03

   Art Lost and Resilience Found

   As you explore the church and cloisters, keep in mind that much of what you see is a testament to survival. During the French Revolution, the abbey was dissolved and fell into ruin, and its most precious treasures were scattered. If you want to see the original sixteenth-century stained glass that once adorned these windows, you would actually have to travel to the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, where several panels are now preserved. The abbey faced even darker times during World War Two. The Gestapo evicted the monks in 1941, and the site was eventually used as a field hospital during the brutal Battle of the Huertgen Forest. Just a short walk away, you can visit the war cemetery, where 414 soldiers are buried. Many of them were brought here by the monks themselves after the war ended in 1945.

4. 04

   The Famous Pea Soup Tradition

   Not all of the traditions here were silent! One of the most famous hospitality rituals at Mariawald involves a simple, hearty bowl of pea soup, or Erbsensuppe. For decades, the monastery's tavern has served this signature dish to hungry hikers and pilgrims, and even today, the recipe remains a closely guarded secret. If you visit the monastery shop, you'll find it is packed with unique products made right here or in other Trappist abbeys, ranging from rich liqueurs and chocolates to herbal soaps and fresh bread. For a practical pointer: if you want the best views of the entire complex, head to the elevated points above the military cemetery; from there, you can see the red-tiled roofs nestled perfectly against the green Eifel hills. Also, the main areas like the church, shop, and restaurant are barrier-free for all guests.

5. 05

   Continuing the Journey

   As you wander through the courtyard, take a moment to notice the ancient linden trees that provide shade to the monastery cemetery located right next to the restaurant wing. Mariawald has transitioned from a closed world of silence to an open gateway for anyone seeking peace. The surrounding Eifelsteig trails offer miles of wandering, but before you set off, perhaps you find yourself wondering what exactly drew those tenth-century hermits to this specific 'Forest of Mary.' There are still 'stations of the cross' winding their way into the forest above Heimbach, waiting to be walked. Whether you are here for the history, the spiritual stillness, or simply that world-famous soup, let the quietude of this place stay with you just a little longer as you choose your next path.