The library of Maria Laach: A treasure from 1093 discovered!
Discover the historical library of Maria Laach Abbey in Bonn, a cultural highlight since 1093, accessible through guided tours.

The library of Maria Laach: A treasure from 1093 discovered!
The Benedictine Abbey of Maria Laach, picturesquely located on Lake Laach, has a very special treasure to offer with its historic library. This library was founded with the founding of the monastery in 1093 and is now recognized as one of the most beautiful libraries in Germany, as the travel guide “Heimat Deutschland” states ruhr24.de. It impresses not only with its antiquarian holdings, but also with the beautiful late Romanesque monastery church, which was completed in 1230 and is considered a prime example of the art of stonemasons.
The library now houses around 260,000 volumes, with the majority housed in the newer section, which opened in 2013. Of particular note is that many older books are kept in the restored Jesuit library, as the original holdings were lost after the abbey was abolished in 1802 and a devastating fire in 1855 caused further damage ruhr24.de.
Guided tours and overnight accommodations
The library is only accessible as part of guided tours that take place daily. Visitors can register via the monastery's website and thus have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of ancient writings. More information can be found on the abbey's official website maria-laach.de.
In addition to the library, the abbey also offers overnight accommodation in single and double rooms with basic amenities. The monastery is not only a place of silence and reflection, but also an inviting retreat for everyone who is looking for something special.
A place with history
The abbey's eventful history is not only reflected in its book collections. When the Jesuit order took over the building in 1862 and set up a study center, the Jesuit library was created, which still exists today. When the Benedictines returned in 1892, the shelves were found empty as many books had been taken abroad ruhr24.de.
So Maria Laach Abbey is not only a cultural heritage, but also a silent witness to history that is worth exploring. Whether as a place for reading, learning or for a contemplative break - a stay here promises relaxation and inspiration at the same time.