Surrounded by the greenery of the northern Eifel, directly on the banks of the Kuttenbach stream, lies the Salvatorian monastery of Steinfeld. The center of education and spirituality in the municipality of Kall has been preserved more completely than almost any other thousand-year-old monastery in Germany. During a visit, the eye feels its way reverently over the historic walls, which tell of monastic order and the centuries-old connection between faith and craftsmanship.
The three characteristic towers of the basilica can be seen from the entrance gate, underlining the Romanesque architecture of the sacred building. Clear lines of natural stone stand out against the blue of the sky. Above everything lies a deep silence that is not empty, but full. The religious community is inviting people to worship today. Guests enter and are amazed at the testimonies of time that enliven the interior: Baroque furnishings meet modern stained glass art, picturesque vaulted frescoes alternate with devout depictions of the Virgin Mary. The historic organ from 1727 with its 46 stops is more than just an eye-catcher.
It is a perfect example of how the overall ensemble of the monastery has changed over the course of its use. Since its foundation in 1121, secularization in 1802 and revival by the Salvatorians in 1923, much has changed on the site: societies now use the historic vaulted room and former sheepfold as a backdrop for weddings, celebrations and events. Three building complexes have been transformed into a modern guest house with 150 rooms, some of which offer a four-star standard. The south-western areas of the former place of faith now house a grammar school with an adjoining assembly hall and a swimming pool. Right next door, guests can enjoy a slice of cake in the monastery café or pick up a souvenir in the monastery store.
Experiences around the monastery
In addition to church services and individual guided tours of the grounds, the Salvatorians also offer organ recitals, readings and classical concerts with invited musicians. In the academy, those interested can further their education and take part in calligraphy courses, voice training workshops or meditation exercises.
A vacation here can also be combined with a hike on the Eifelsteig trail. From here, the trail can take you to the Stolzenberg ruins, Reifferscheid Castle or the Vogelsang International Square, which today stands for tolerance, diversity and peaceful coexistence. If you like, you can even dive deep underground on a booked tour to visit the former temporary headquarters of the NRW state government. The former bunker complex and current documentation site is just a 20-minute walk from Steinfeld Monastery.
