Marienberg Abbey

Marienberg Abbey above Burgeis near Malles in the Vinschgau lies at about 1,350 m and is described as the highest Benedictine abbey in Europe. It was founded in the 12th century; the church dates from the late 12th century and was given its Baroque appearance between 1643 and 1648. A Benedictine community still lives here.

In 1980 frescoes were discovered in the crypt when burial structures were removed. They are regarded as one of the largest surviving examples of Romanesque art in the Alps. Since 2007 there has been the "Ora et labora" museum on monastic life past and present. The library, in a modern underground building, holds more than 100,000 printed works. The complex also includes an abbey café and an abbey shop.

The Alpen-Guide adds the abbey organ of 1865 as a further sight and recommends viewing the abbey from outside on a walk as well. A paved road leads up via Burgeis or Watles; on foot you can reach it by the Stundenweg or the Sonnensteig. For current visiting times and tours, consult the abbey's website.