Stift Geras

The door is open, but the heart is even more open: the Premonstratensian monastery in Geras extends a warm welcome to its guests. The monastery, which was founded around 1150, is now a landmark and focal point of its idyllic Waldviertel surroundings.

Art and culture are consciously lived and experienced on the basis of ancient monastic tradition. In addition to the permanent exhibitions "Herbal priest Weidinger and his monastery" and "Monastery treasures", changing special exhibitions are presented. The inviting herb garden reveals many an old medicinal secret: it goes back to the initiative of herbalist priest Hermann Weidinger, who as a canon made the healing properties of plants popular again. Cultural events and seminars such as silent retreats and monastery fasting round off the monastery's offerings.

The history of Geras Abbey

The monastery is thought to have been founded in 1153. The first Premonstratensians came here from the Moravian abbey of Želiv/Seelau. Founded by Count Ulrich II von Pernegg, Geras became a center of culture, pastoral care and business. Over the centuries, however, the borderland monastery was repeatedly caught between the fronts: The monastery was occupied, plundered, confiscated or set on fire several times. After the Thirty Years' War, it finally lay completely in ruins - with only five confreres left. After they found the almost intact statue of the Mother of God in the ruins, they began to rebuild.

Guided tours of the monastery:
Thursday to Sunday & public holidays at 11.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m.

Exclusive guided tours outside opening hours:
Tuesday & Wednesday at 11:00 a.m.