Monastery Marienwerder

The Monastery - Its History

The Monastery Marienwerder was founded in 1196 as the private monastery of Count Conrad I of Roden and consecrated in 1200. It was initially staffed by Augustinian canons. In 1216, Augustinian nuns from the Obernkirchen convent replaced the canons. In 1542, Duchess Elisabeth introduced the Reformation in the Principality of Calenberg. At the same time, she ensured the continued existence of the monasteries. In 1620, the Monastery Marienwerder was granted the status of a Protestant convent.

The monastery's responsibilities

The current convent buildings were constructed between 1688 and 1724 in the Baroque style. Between 1858 and 1861, the convent church underwent extensive restoration, giving it its present appearance. The monastery’s duties are defined by a set of monastic rules issued by the Lower Saxony Minister of Science and Culture. In 1963, drawing on ancient monastic traditions, the single women living in the Christian community founded a home for elderly and frail nuns from Lower Saxony’s Protestant convents and women’s monasteries.

Events

Since 1953, the Paramentenverein has been carrying on old traditions. Even today, liturgical textiles are still crafted on commission. During the summer months, the monastery welcomes guests to exhibitions, lectures, and readings, as well as to the “Music for Strollers” series. “Open Monastery Day” takes place on the third Sunday in September. It serves as an opportunity for people to meet, engage in conversation, reach out to the wider community, and foster a sense of connection with both the church congregation and the local community.

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