Monastery elections in the change of time: A look at the abbots of Zwettl

Monastery elections in the change of time: A look at the abbots of Zwettl

in the monastery life, which is characterized by the Benedictine monks, the choice of the head plays an important role. According to the rules of St. Benedict, the abbot should be determined by his brothers in the election process, instead of hierarchical due to age. This suggests that qualifications such as experience and wisdom in particular are required. In the 6th century, however, there were no strict rules that made a majority vote binding; Smaller communities were also able to determine their head in a “more sensible” way.

The history of the Zwettl Cistercian Abbey shows that there have been a large number of significant abilities over the centuries. These personalities were not only characterized by clever economic management, but also by commitment to the cultural and religious development of the Waldviertel. Abbot Bohuslaus, who ruled from 1248 to 1258, had the famous “Zwettler Kreuz” and the ivory madonna purchased. And Abbot Ebro, who was at the top from 1273 to 1304, was known for his far -sighted economic policy and is the reason for numerous documentaries about how the "Bear skin" pen is recorded.

successful abbey and their merits

Another important figure in this story is Abbot Johann VIII. Bernhard Linck, who served from 1646 to 1671. He raised the monastic historiography to a new level. Abbot Melchior von Zaunagg (1706-1747) carried out a strict reform of monastery life. He was able to implement his ambitious baroque project without bringing the pen into financial difficulties. Abbot Stephan Rössler, whose term of office from 1878 to 1923 was the longest of a Zwettler abbot, is also particularly noteworthy. Under his leadership, numerous modernizations of the monastery building were initiated, including technical innovations such as a house telegraph and electrification .。

Abbot Bertrand Baumann (1980-1992) also had a lasting influence. He improved the efficiency of the Stiftful winery Schloss Gobelsburg and thus laid the foundation for the international reputation of the Gobelsburg wines, which later generations are proud.

The dark sides of the monastery leaders

Despite these successes, there were also fewer glamorous times in the history of monastery. The monks' elections did not always lead to ideal leaders. Especially in times of crisis, the abbeys could not always meet their expectations. An example is Abbot Berthold Gamerith, who was chosen after a difficult phase, which was also difficult for the monastery.

Likewise, the time after the Reformation and the early 19th century is remembered as a crisis. In 1786, the monastery presented a tax fraud with serious challenges, which ultimately led to the impending cancellation. The instability in these years shows that the choice of a highly qualified abbot, similar to politics, is not a guarantee of permanent success and stability.

These insights into the monastic past and the associated elections give an interesting view of the development history of the Zwettl Abbey. If you want to learn more about the exciting stories from the history of the monastery, you will find corresponding reports here .