Located about 25 kilometers northwest of Munich in Bavaria, Fürstenfeld Abbey is a former Cistercian monastery steeped in compelling royal history. Founded in the 13th century as papal penance by Duke Louis II after he wrongfully executed his first wife, Marie of Brabant, this household monastery of the Wittelsbachs grew into a major spiritual and cultural site. Although sacked during the Thirty Years' War by Swedish forces, the abbey made a remarkable recovery, leading to extensive Baroque rebuilds.
When you visit, you will encounter the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, celebrated as a southern German late Baroque masterpiece. Step inside to admire grand artistic achievements, including vibrant ceiling frescoes painted by Cosmas Damian Asam and striking side altars created by Egid Quirin Asam. The church holds the alleged remains of Saint Hyacinth of Caesarea and Saint Clemens, along with elaborate Baroque monuments honoring Duke Louis II, who is buried here, and Emperor Louis IV, whose heart rests at the site.
Following 19th-century secularization and use as a military hospital, the former service buildings were transformed into a modern cultural center, offering visitors a fascinating blend of profound history, religious architecture, and artistic heritage.
What to see at Fürstenfeld Abbey
- Masterpiece late Baroque Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- Ceiling frescoes by Cosmas Damian Asam and altars by Egid Quirin Asam
- Elaborate Baroque monuments honoring Duke Louis II and Emperor Louis IV
- Sacred relics said to belong to Saint Hyacinth of Caesarea and Saint Clemens
- Historic Wittelsbach monastery buildings transformed into a cultural center
Visiting tips
Be sure to inspect the interior church details to admire the artwork created by the renowned Asam brothers.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Fürstenfeld Abbey is easy to reach on Olching’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Olching travel guide.
See the full Olching travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.