Tholey Herb and Monastery Garden Market

One of Germany's Oldest Monasteries

The Benedictine Abbey of St. Mauritius in Tholey is one of the oldest monasteries in Germany – its roots reach back to the 7th century. Anyone who has strolled through the monastery garden understands why this place is so perfect for a herb market: For centuries, monks cultivated and used medicinal herbs for their pharmacy here. This tradition lives on in the modern herb market – in a contemporary way, yet connected to the historical spirit.

Over 35 Exhibitors

On Saturday, July 12, 2026, the Rathausplatz in Tholey and the adjacent monastery garden will transform into an open marketplace. Over 35 exhibitors – herb farmers, beekeepers, medicinal plant experts, artisans, and garden centers – will present their products: teas, tinctures, essential oils, ointments, honey, spirits, herbal cookbooks, floristry, and decorations for home and garden. Each stand tells its own small story about medicinal plants and their uses.

Monastery Garden and Monastery Festival

Parallel to the market, the Benedictine Abbey of St. Mauritius celebrates its Monastery Festival. Monastery tours, insights into monastic life, and music in the monastery garden complement the market activities. Those seeking a moment of peace will find it in the meditative corners of the garden – far from the hustle and bustle of the market.

'Art and Culinary' — The New Format from 2026

Starting in 2026, the municipality of Tholey will enhance the traditional market offerings with the new 'Art and Culinary' format. Local artists, galleries, and restaurants will be integrated into the program – making the market a day that combines enjoyment, craftsmanship, and monastic culture. Additional dates are planned throughout 2026, but the mid-July summer date remains the highlight.

Tholey in the St. Wendel District

Tholey is a municipality in the St. Wendel district in northern Saarland with just under 12,000 inhabitants. In recent years, the town has gained fame for the spectacular choir windows of the abbey church, designed by the South African-German artist Mahbuba Maqsoodi and the internationally renowned Gerhard Richter. This combination of ancient monastic tradition and contemporary art makes Tholey one of the most exciting cultural destinations in Saarland today.

More Than a Market — Workshops in the Lead-Up

In the two weeks preceding the market, herb walks, workshops, and lectures on medicinal plants traditionally take place. Those wishing to delve deeper can find information and register through the Tourist Information Office at Römerallee 5.