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Abbey of Murbach: A Romanesque Masterpiece in Alsace

Discover the Romanesque beauty and rich history of the Abbey of Murbach, a former Benedictine monastery nestled in the scenic Alsace region.

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Nestled in a verdant valley in southern Alsace, the Abbey of Murbach stands as a testament to Romanesque architecture and a rich history dating back to the 8th century. Founded in 727, the abbey was once a powerful Benedictine monastery and a significant intellectual center. Today, visitors can explore the remaining transept and choir of the abbey church, built with pink sandstone, and wander through the serene cemetery that marks the site of the former nave.

A brief summary to Abbey of Murbach

  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Take a walk up to the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette chapel for a panoramic view of the abbey and surrounding valley.
  • Explore the cemetery, which marks the spot where the nave of the abbey once stood.
  • Visit the abbey to appreciate the Romanesque architecture and serene atmosphere of this historic site.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Colmar, the nearest major city, take a bus to Guebwiller. From Guebwiller, you can take a local bus or a taxi to Murbach. Bus tickets typically cost between €18 and €24 for the Colmar to Murbach journey. A local bus from Guebwiller to Murbach will be a small additional fare, while a taxi from Guebwiller to Murbach is approximately 10km.

  • Driving

    Murbach Abbey is accessible via the D430 from Guebwiller. Free parking is available near the abbey. From Guebwiller, follow the D430 for approximately 10 km to reach Murbach.

  • Walking

    For those who enjoy hiking, Murbach Abbey can be reached by foot from Guebwiller. The walk is approximately 10 km and offers scenic views of the Alsace region. Follow local trails and road signs for Murbach.

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Discover more about Abbey of Murbach

The Abbey of Murbach, or Abbaye de Murbach in French, is a former Benedictine monastery located in a picturesque valley at the foot of the Grand Ballon in the Vosges mountains. Founded in 727 by Count Eberhard of Alsace and established by Saint Pirmin, the abbey quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the wealthiest and most influential monasteries in the region. Throughout its history, Murbach Abbey played a significant role in both religious and political affairs. Charlemagne himself held the title of Abbot of Murbach in the late 8th century, and by the 9th century, the abbey had become an intellectual hub, boasting a library with hundreds of theological, grammatical, and historical works. The abbey's influence extended far beyond Alsace, with possessions in present-day Germany and Switzerland. In 1789, during the French Revolution, the abbey was looted by peasants and subsequently dissolved. The nave of the abbey church was demolished in 1739, and the monks relocated to Guebwiller. Today, only the transept with its two steeples and the east end with the choir remain of the original 12th-century Romanesque abbey church. These remaining sections, constructed with the characteristic pink sandstone of the Vosges, showcase the abbey's architectural grandeur. The interior features a stripped design, with contemporary stained-glass windows casting soft light. Visitors can also explore the Chapel of Our Lady of Loreto, built in 1693, which offers panoramic views of the old abbey. The site of the former nave now serves as a burial ground. A visit to Murbach Abbey offers a glimpse into Alsace's rich religious and cultural heritage. The abbey is open daily and free to visit, allowing visitors to appreciate the Romanesque architecture and the peaceful atmosphere of this historic site. Don't miss the chance to walk up the hill to the Chapel Notre-Dame-de-Lorette for stunning views of the abbey and the surrounding valley.

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