Some of Europe’s oldest and most iconic places are in its humblest buildings. Monasteries and abbeys are sprinkled throughout the countries and make for a somber and unforgettable experience. From ancient abbeys in Italy to majestic monasteries in Austria, browse this gallery for a better look at them all.
Klosterneuburg Monastery located in the northeastern region of Austria has been the area’s religious center since it was founded in 1114. The outside of the monastery is recognized by its castle towers while the inside is full of intricate designs and features a copper altar known as Verdun Altar.
Pannonhalma Archabbey resides in the countryside of Hungary and dates back to around 1000 AD. Over the years, Pannonhalma Archabbey has grown to be an expansive religious center and is the second-largest territorial abbey in the world.
Located in Belgium’s Luxembourg’s tranquil rural scenery, the walls of Orval Abbey have been around for hundreds of years. Today, parts of the abbey act as a unique home for a local Belgian brewery.
Vezzolano Abbey is one of Europe’s oldest religious sites and is a spiritual wonder in northern Italy. It’s no longer the religious center of the area, but it remains a popular tourist destination. It’s a small, quaint abbey that has been remarkably preserved through the years.
The Alcobaça Monastery in Portugal is a true architectural spectacle. Every inch of the monastery’s interior is covered with intricate art details and extravagant touches. During the Middle Ages, AlcobaçaMonastery was perhaps the most important place in Portugal.
The Sumela Monastery of Turkey rests astonishingly on the edge of a steep cliff. At 3,900 ft. in elevation, the monastery offers some of the best views in Turkey. And inside, the entire property feels like it has become a part of the mountainside.
Much like the monastery in Turkey, the Ostrog Monastery is carved into the side of a cliff. Views from the monastery stretch for miles across the Bjelopavlići plain. Even getting to the Ostrog Monastery is an adventure in itself, along the winding countryside roads.
Admont Monastery rests along the calm waters of the Enns River in Austria and is famous for its Baroque architecture. Inside, the Admont Abbey library is one of the best features, thanks to the artistic murals and stunning details.
Nicknamed the Sistine Chapel of the East, Romania’s prized monastery is more formally known as Voronet Monastery. Every inch of the building’s façade is covered with a beautiful and religious mural that is full of stories. Today, the monastery is one of Romania’s most popular tourist destinations.
Greece has long been a haven for religious centers. One of the most important monasteries in all of Greece is The Metéora in Thessaly. Its name fittingly translates to “in the heavens above.” The building sits atop a mound of rock and provides unparalleled views of Thessaly.
Part fortified castle and part religious commune, Le Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is one of Europe’s most unique abbeys. It rests on its own island off the shores of Normandy and is still an active religious site in France.
Due to years of natural damage, much of the Glastonbury Abbey in England is in ruins today. But that doesn’t keep thousands of visitors from flocking to the religious grounds every year. Along with being a fascinating site, the abbey is often associated with the ancient tales of King Arthur.
Europe’s culture is not limited to its numerous art museums and palaces. Some of Europe’s greatest stories can be heard over a glass of wine, beer or other drink within the walls of a pub or finest alcohol outlets off the beaten track.
Europe is a jolly place to be any time of the year. But when Christmas time rolls around, some places become nothing short of magical. It all starts at the Christmas markets sprinkled throughout the continent. From Finland to France, unwrap the wonder of European Christmas markets with this gallery. Then, find your way here in December to experience it firsthand.
There’s a lot to celebrate in Europe – especially during one of Europe’s many fire and ice festivals. Each festival is different from the rest, but they’re all a good time. From Iceland to Malta and everywhere in between, Europe’s festivals are some of the most colorful, festive and energetic celebrations on the planet. Browse some of the best and literally the brightest fire and ice festivals in Europe with this photo gallery.
Europe is a treat in more ways than one, and the local confections make it all the sweeter. You may already know about Belgian chocolate and Italian gelato. But that’s just the start of the sweet treats found in Europe. Let your taste buds travel the continent with these 12 sweet treats.
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