in Cultural and Heritage Sites, Religious Sites

Four Architecturally Magnificent Monasteries around the World

Franciscan Monastery Ruins Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

1k Views

4 Amazing Monasteries around the World

Many people enjoy visiting different types of monasteries that are spread across the world. There is something so mystical about each magnificent architecture and most of these historical buildings can best be described as works of art, with beautiful sculptures, colorful windows, and steeples that reach high up into the sky. If you are a lover of fantastic architectural feats then these four monasteries should definitely make it onto your bucket list.

Meteora, Greece

The monastery at Meteora by Dennis David Auger - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The monastery at Meteora by Dennis David Auger – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Known as one of the largest and most important Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece, it is not difficult to see why this structure is regarded as one of the most beautiful monasteries in the world.

With a name that loosely translates to “suspended in the air”, this masterpiece is built atop a natural sandstone rock pillar. From high above the ground, the monks were protected from any political turmoil, with complete control over the beautiful entrance.

Saint Catherine’s Monastery, Egypt

Saint Catherine’s Monastery by Berthold Werner - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Saint Catherine’s Monastery by Berthold Werner – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Believed by many to be the oldest working Orthodox monastery in the world, with the second-largest collection of early manuscripts and codices, outdone only by the legendary Vatican Library, there is no question as to why this beautiful building should make it onto your list.

Built at the site where Moses was believed to have seen the burning bush, the amount of history attached to this monastery makes it well worth the visit.

Franciscan Monastery Ruins, Berlin

Franciscan Monastery Ruins Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Franciscan Monastery Ruins Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Built in the middle of the thirteenth century, this monastery holds the title as the oldest and most beautiful Gothic building in Berlin. In 1574 it was converted into a grammar school, it was almost being completely destroyed by war in 1945. After the war, a campaign was formed to preserve what was left.

The bombed-out rooftop, beautiful glassless windows, and architecturally stunning walls are all that remain. If you find yourself visiting Berlin, the best place to stay is definitely at one of the many cozy guesthouses dotted around the Mitte district. These places are economical and close to many of the most popular attractions.

The Alcobaça Monastery, Portugal

The Alcobaça Monastery by Flávio de Souza - Own work. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
The Alcobaça Monastery by Flávio de Souza – Own work. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons

This Roman Catholic Monastery, located in the town of Alcobaça, in central Portugal, is without a doubt one of the most magnificent Gothic buildings worldwide.

It was founded by the first Portuguese King, Afonso Henriques in 1153, bringing with it a long and interesting history. As a result of its historical and artistic importance, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.

Also read:

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

What do you think?

0 Points
Upvote Downvote

Comments

Travel Guide: Asik-Asik Waterfalls in Alamada Cotabato

Five travel gadgets every techie needs