Walsrode: Walsrode Abbey

Walsrode Abbey is surrounded by an old brick wall dating from the 18th century. It is located in the centre of the vibrant heathland town of Walsrode, between the two shopping streets of Lange Straße and Moorstraße.

Having entered the Abbey through a wrought-iron gate, the visitor is met by harmonious baroque buildings and a well-kept park – a place of remarkable tranquillity that invites you to pause and think.

With its thousand-year history, the Abbey is the oldest of six abbeys and monasteries in Lüneburg Heath. It was founded prior to 986 A.D. by Count Wale and his wife Odelinth as a secular convent.

Today, it is still a secular convent - a tradition that has remained alive. Its conventuals dedicate themselves to social, voluntary, and cultural tasks. A conventual will lead visitors on a guided tour lasting about one hour, introducing them to the history, architectural features, and various cultural treasures of the Abbey. The latter include the "Bambino", a 500-year old Jesus Christ figurine, a carving of the Last Supper, a reliquary casket with a Paradiesgärtlein (Garden of Paradise), medieval stained-glass windows showing the founder’ coat of arms, and chair of the Abbess.

There is more to the Abbey than its historical treasures, however. From April to October, it also puts on a range of events, including much-loved concerts in the chapel, exhibitions, and lectures.