Kloster St. Georgen zu Stein am Rhein

Kloster St. Georgen in Stein am Rhein is a former Benedictine abbey on the Rhine in the canton of Schaffhausen, now open to visitors as the Museum Kloster Sankt Georgen. It sits in one of northern Switzerland's best-preserved medieval towns, close to the German border.

What is the history of the abbey?

According to the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland, Duke Burchard III of Swabia and his wife Hadwig founded a religious house around 970 on the Hohentwiel hill near Singen. King Henry II moved it to Stein am Rhein in 1007 and endowed it generously. From the 11th to the 13th century, the abbot of St. Georgen ranked among the most powerful figures in the region between Konstanz and Schaffhausen.

The Reformation ended monastic life here. The abbey was dissolved on 5 July 1525. Its last abbot, David von Winkelsheim, is linked to the Festsaal of 1516, considered one of the most significant painted interiors of the early modern era north of the Alps.

What can you see inside?

The buildings are arranged around an inner courtyard, and the layout still shows the split between the abbot's ceremonial rooms and the living quarters. The museum presents the abbot's apartments, including the richly decorated Festsaal, along with objects from monastic and town life. It is a good place to grasp how religious and political power worked in the region before the Reformation.

Who owns and runs it?

In 1926 the former monastery passed from private hands to the Gottfried Keller Foundation, and since 1945 the complex has belonged to the Swiss Confederation. The foundation operates the museum, which is listed among the museums linked to the Federal Office of Culture.

When should you visit?

The museum is seasonal: April to October, Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 to 18:00. Check current hours and prices on the museum's website before you go, as they can change. Combine the visit with a walk through the old town of Stein am Rhein, which the abbey adjoins, and along the Rhine bank.

Frequently asked questions

Is the monastery still active?

No. The community was dissolved in 1525 during the Reformation, and the buildings now house a museum.

Who founded it?

Burchard III of Swabia and Hadwig founded the original house around 970 on the Hohentwiel. In 1007 King Henry II relocated it to Stein am Rhein.

What is the highlight of the collection?

The Festsaal of 1516, associated with the last abbot, David von Winkelsheim, is regarded as the key attraction.

When is the museum open?

From April to October, Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 to 18:00.