Schlierbach Abbey

On the journey to the monasteries in Upper Austria, a visit to Schlierbach Monastery is on the agenda. In contrast to the other monasteries, this is a "living" monastery that does not present its history and the more or less glorious past, but rather the everyday life and activities of an economically well-run monastic company. This is certainly also due to the lack of land like Melk or Kremsmünster, which means that a healthy economic basis must be guaranteed in another way. What falls by the wayside are the historical aspects and the special aura of an old monastery. I chose a tour that was very informative and original. Both stained glass and cheese production were shown, but in a smaller yet informative setting with small insights and videos. In addition, the very beautiful church and the small library could be visited. After the tour, the cheese specialties could be tasted in the beautifully designed panorama cafe, which also includes a well-stocked monastery shop that offers interesting items, including, of course, the excellent cheese. I have to admit that I was a bit torn after this visit. On the one hand, it was interesting and informative and showed a completely different monastery life, but I missed the historical aspects and could hardly see anything of the monastery itself. I didn't like that much and I missed that.