Engelberg Abbey

Engelberg Abbey (Kloster Engelberg) is a working Benedictine monastery in the town of Engelberg, in the canton of Obwalden, central Switzerland. It sits at the head of an Alpine valley and has served as a centre of prayer, learning and craft since the twelfth century.

What is the abbey's history?

According to the annals cited by the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland, monastic life began here in 1120 in a foundation endowed by the nobleman Konrad von Sellenbüren. The first abbot was Adelhelm, and the founding monks came from Muri. In 1124 Pope Callixtus II confirmed the community's endowment. Under Abbot Frowin (1147 to about 1178) a renowned scriptorium flourished, and the library still holds manuscripts from that era, including an illuminated Bible.

The abbey joined the Swiss Benedictine Congregation in 1604 and spent the following decades seeking independence from the diocesan bishop. It belonged to the Diocese of Constance until 1814 and has come under the Diocese of Chur since then. Its patrons are Mary (feast on 15 August) and Nicholas of Myra (6 December).

What can you see here?

The present Baroque complex was built in 1730 to 1737, after a great fire in 1729. The abbey church, with its lavish Baroque and Rococo interior, is the centrepiece. Guided visits include the monastery library and the music library; check kloster-engelberg.ch for current tour times.

The monks also run a school, a carpentry workshop, a vineyard and a garden. A highlight is the show dairy, where you watch cheese being made through a viewing window. Several hundred visitors come through on a typical day, and the finished cheeses are sold in the shop.

How do you get there, and when should you go?

Engelberg lies roughly 35 km south of Lucerne. The easiest way is the regional train from Lucerne, then a short walk through the village from the station to the abbey. The site stands at about 1,000 m above sea level, so summers are fresh and winters snowy. The interiors can be visited all year, and the abbey pairs well with a trip up Mount Titlis or a valley walk. It is an active monastery, so keep quiet during services and dress modestly.

Frequently asked questions

Is Engelberg Abbey still active?

Yes. A Benedictine community lives here, and the monastery runs a school and its own workshops.

When was the monastery founded?

Monastic life began in 1120 through the endowment of Konrad von Sellenbüren. The current buildings date from 1730 to 1737, after a fire.

Can you visit the library and the dairy?

Yes. The libraries open on guided tours, and the show dairy welcomes visitors on a regular schedule. Check the abbey's official website for current hours.

Do you need to book a visit?

The church and the dairy usually need no reservation. For the libraries, ask about tour dates before you arrive, especially in high season.