Benedictine Archabbey of Pannonhalma, Pannonhalma, Hungary Verified listing

Benedictine Archabbey of Pannonhalma, Pannonhalma, Hungary

The Benedictine Pannonhalma Archabbey, also called the Territorial Abbey of Saint Martin on Mount Pannonhalma, ranks as one of Hungary’s oldest historic sites. It was founded in 996. The abbey sits on a hill 282 meters high near the town of Pannonhalma. Many believe Saint Martin of Tours was born at the foot of this hill. Therefore, people called the hill Mount of Saint Martin, or Márton-hegy in Hungarian. Because of this, the monastery sometimes uses the name Márton-hegyi Apátság. Additionally, this abbey is the second largest territorial abbey worldwide, with only the Monte Cassino abbey being larger.

Visitors can explore many sights at the abbey. First, the Basilica and its Crypt, built in the 13th century, attract many tourists. Next, the peaceful Cloisters provide a place for quiet reflection. Moreover, the Library holds about 360,000 volumes and ranks among Hungary’s largest. The Baroque Refectory stands out with impressive trompe-l'œil paintings that create optical illusions. The Archabbey Collection, the second largest in the country, adds to the abbey’s cultural richness. Due to its architectural history spanning over a thousand years and its importance as a cultural and religious center, UNESCO named the abbey a World Heritage Site in 1996.

Today, around fifty monks live and worship at the abbey. In addition, the abbey runs a Benedictine High School. This school, a boys’ boarding school, continues the abbey’s tradition of education and faith. As a result, the abbey remains both a spiritual home and a place of learning.

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