Doberan Abbey Days

Symposium at Doberan Abbey

The Doberan Abbey Days have been organized by the Klosterverein Doberan e.V. since 2007. Every September, they bring together scientists, theologians, monument conservators, and representatives of other abbeys, churches, and associations in Doberan Abbey and on the monastery grounds. The venues include the Abbey church, the community center of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and other rooms within the monastic complex.

Thematic Focus

Each year, the Abbey Days are held under a different guiding theme. In 2026, the motto will be »Charity and Mercy in the Cistercian Monastery«; in previous years, themes such as »Everyday Life in the Monastery« (2023) and topics concerning the medieval building guild, pilgrimage practices, and monastic economy were central.

Program and Cisterscapes

The program includes lectures, panel discussions, concerts of medieval and baroque music (including performances by the Berlin vocal ensemble VOX NOSTRA), guided tours of the chapel and monastery complex, a church service, and a guided tour of the monastery's historical care facilities. The Abbey Days are part of the European network »Cisterscapes«, which is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage recognition of Cistercian landscapes.

Regional Context

Bad Doberan is located in the Rostock district (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern). Doberan Abbey was founded in 1171 as a Cistercian monastery and is one of the most important Brick Gothic churches in Northern Germany. The Abbey Days lend academic depth to the site's cultural heritage and make it accessible to a broad audience.