Kloster Seligenporten

Welcome to the small village of Seligenporten, nestled in the district of Neumarkt in the Upper Palatinate. At first glance, this quiet community may seem like many others in Bavaria, but as we approach the former Cistercian…

Step inside the nave and allow your eyes to adjust to the dim, reverent light. The primary architectural character of Seligenporten is Gothic, though much of the lower space was later 'barockisiert'—updated with the ornate,…

We now move to a somewhat 'versteckt'—hidden—corner of the church. Look for the small, unassuming doorway that leads to the upper levels. …

We have reached the 'Nonnenchor,' and before us sits one of the most significant cultural artifacts in Germany. These are the choir stalls of Seligenporten, which are over 600 years old. …

Let us examine the specific carvings that adorn these ancient stalls. Despite their age, the details remain remarkably sharp. …

From our elevated position in the Nonnenchor, we have a unique perspective on the church’s interior. Look down over the railing into the main nave. …

As we conclude our indoor exploration and step back into the village, we must consider Seligenporten's role in the wider district of Neumarkt in the Oberpfalz. This is a region rich in history, often overlooked in favor of the…

Our journey through Kloster Seligenporten has taken us from the broad strokes of Gothic and Baroque architecture to the intimate, tactile details of the oldest choir stalls in Germany. We have climbed the worn steps of the…