Maulbronn Abbey (Kloster Maulbronn)

Maulbronn Abbey, located in Germany's Black Forest, is one of Europe's most complete and best preserved medieval monastery complexes. It combines many architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic, making it an interesting place to explore. Visitors can see the different styles between the church, the cloister, and the fountain house. Since the buildings have been maintained so well, visitors can still see what life was like here for the monks from the 12th to the 16th centuries. Explore the grounds where the monks farmed and the sophisticated water management system is still intact.  
The courtyard is surrounded by towers, a half-mile long defensive wall, outbuildings, and imposing living quarters. After the Reformation, the complex was converted into a Protestant boarding school. Today it still serves as a school and theological seminary. The monastery complex is also used as a concert venue due to its exceptional acoustics. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993. 

Practical Info

Maulbronn Abbey is located at Klosterhof 5 in Maulbronn. To get there, take bus 700 from Bretten-Mühlacker or bus 734/735 from Pforzheim. Opening hours are 9am to 5.30pm daily from March to October, and Tuesday to Sunday 9.30am to 5pm from November to February. Admission is 7 euros.