900 Years of Walkenried Abbey
1127–2027: The Walkenried Monastery celebrates the 900th anniversary of its founding.
In 2027, Walkenried Abbey in the Harz Mountains will celebrate the 900th anniversary of its founding. This anniversary year invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the Middle Ages and rediscover the origins of what was once one of Germany’s most important Cistercian monasteries.
Concerts, historical reenactments, exhibitions, lectures, and hands-on activities bring the monastery’s history to life at its original location.
In 2027, Walkenried will become a gateway to the Middle Ages.
1127 – the beginning of a
900-year history
The foundation for the history of Walkenried Abbey was laid 900 years ago. The Cistercian abbey grew to become one of the wealthiest and most important abbeys in Germany.
Even today, the Gothic monastery complex and the imposing ruins of the monastery church bear witness to the history of the Walkenried monastic community. Since 2010, the Gothic monastery complex has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Harz Mountains.
The 900th anniversary of the monastery’s founding takes visitors back to its origins: to the Middle Ages and to the time when the history of Walkenried Monastery began.
The Anniversary Year 2027
The 900th anniversary of the founding of Walkenried Abbey will be celebrated in 2027 with a varied program of events.
History, music, culture, and hands-on experiences come together right here at this historic site.
Visitors can look forward to the following attractions, among others:
- Historical Reenactments and Living History
- Medieval Market
- Concerts in the Cloister and Open-Air Concerts
- Exhibitions and Lectures
- Readings
- Hands-On Activities
- Events for Families and Culture Enthusiasts
Additional events and dates for the anniversary year will be announced on an ongoing basis.
June 2027: A Month of Celebrations
In June 2027, the Middle Ages will come to life in Walkenried. Several major events will be the highlights of the anniversary program.
The High
: Experience the Middle Ages
5. & June 6, 2027
IG Wolf e. V. takes visitors on a journey into the world of the High Middle Ages. Historical reenactments bring the period surrounding the founding of the monastery to life in a unique way.
Corvus Corax
: Kings of the Minstrels
June 19, 2027
Medieval sounds meet the monastery’s impressive backdrop: Corvus Corax—the kings of minstrels —are coming to Walkenried for an open-air concert.
Medieval Market “Anno 1127”
26. & June 27, 2027
To wrap up the month of celebrations, the Anno 1127 Medieval Market takes visitors back to the world of the Middle Ages. Market activities, a historic atmosphere, and a variety of experiences make this weekend a highlight for the whole family.
Experience history right where it happened
What makes this anniversary special is that the story isn’t just being told anywhere.
You can experience it at the original location.
The historic monastery complex serves as the backdrop for a journey back to the Middle Ages. Architecture, history, music, and interactive exhibits come together to create a special anniversary celebration centered on Walkenried Monastery and the Cistercian Museum at Walkenried Monastery.
900 years after its founding, the gateway to the Middle Ages opens once again.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Anniversary
When will Walkenried Abbey celebrate its 900th anniversary?
Walkenried Abbey will celebrate the 900th anniversary of its founding in 2027. The abbey was founded in 1127.
When will the main anniversary events take place?
Events are planned throughout the entire anniversary year of 2027. A special focus will be on the celebratory month of June 2027.
What will take place at Walkenried Abbey in June 2027?
Highlights announced so far include historical reenactments by IG Wolf e. V. on June 5 and 6, an open-air concert by Corvus Corax on June 19, and the “Anno 1127” medieval market on June 26 and 27, 2027.
Where will the 900th anniversary of the monastery be celebrated?
The main venue is Walkenried Abbey, located at 37445 Walkenried in the Harz Mountains. Depending on the event, different areas of the historic abbey complex are used.
Will there be any more events?
Yes. The anniversary will be accompanied by a diverse program of cultural events and activities. Additional dates, program highlights, and information will be posted on this page.
900 Years of Walkenried Abbey—Come Celebrate with Us!
The story began in 1127. In 2027, we will celebrate the 900th anniversary of Walkenried Abbey together.
Discover the monastery and the Cistercian Museum, experience the Middle Ages, and look forward to an extraordinary anniversary year in the Harz Mountains.
This page is updated regularly. More events and information about the 2027 anniversary program will follow.
