Žiče Charterhouse: An In-Depth Look at Slovenia’s Most Historic Monastery
Žiče Charterhouse, located in the Slovenian town of Žiče, is one of the oldest and most historic monasteries in Europe. The monastery was founded in 1160 by the Bishop of Freising, Arnold I, and was home to the Carthusian order of monks for centuries. The monastery was destroyed during the Turkish invasions of the 16th century, but was rebuilt in the early 17th century and has remained in use ever since.
History
The Carthusian order of monks was founded in 1084 by Saint Bruno of Cologne. The order was dedicated to a life of solitude and prayer, and the monks lived in individual cells, separated from each other by walls and gardens. The Carthusians were known for their strict adherence to their religious beliefs, and the monks at Žiče Charterhouse were no exception.
In 1160, the Bishop of Freising, Arnold I, founded the monastery at Žiče and gave it to the Carthusian order. The monastery quickly became one of the most important religious centers in the region, and it was home to many of the most influential religious figures of the time.
The monastery was destroyed during the Turkish invasions of the 16th century, but was rebuilt in the early 17th century. The monastery was restored to its former glory, and it remained in use until the 19th century, when it was abandoned due to a lack of funds.
The monastery was taken over by the Slovenian government in the 1950s and has since been restored to its former glory. Today, the monastery is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination.
Amazing Facts
Žiče Charterhouse is one of the oldest and most historic monasteries in Europe. It was founded in 1160, making it over 850 years old.
The monastery was home to the Carthusian order of monks, who were known for their strict adherence to their religious beliefs.
The monastery was destroyed during the Turkish invasions of the 16th century, but was rebuilt in the early 17th century.
The monastery was abandoned in the 19th century due to a lack of funds, but was restored to its former glory by the Slovenian government in the 1950s.
Things to Do at Žiče Charterhouse
Žiče Charterhouse is a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of things to do and see at the monastery. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and admire the stunning architecture, or take a guided tour of the monastery and learn about its history and the Carthusian order of monks. Visitors can also visit the monastery’s museum, which houses artifacts from the monastery’s long history, or take part in one of the monastery’s religious services.
The monastery is also home to a number of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. The monastery also hosts a number of workshops and classes, which are open to the public.
Conclusion
Žiče Charterhouse is one of the oldest and most historic monasteries in Europe. The monastery was founded in 1160 and was home to the Carthusian order of monks for centuries. The monastery was destroyed during the Turkish invasions of the 16th century, but was rebuilt in the early 17th century and has remained in use ever since. Today, the monastery is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination, with plenty of things to do and see.