AUSTRIA Heiligenkreuz

Stift Heiligenkreuz, meaning the Abbey of Heiligenkreuz, is the second-oldest in the world and the oldest continuously active and inhabited Cistercian monastery. Pope Benedict XVI visited the monastery in 2007. Situated peacefully in the middle of the Vienna woods, it is one of the most beautiful medieval monasteries in the world. It was founded in 1133 by St. Leopold III. The Abbey preserves many manuscripts of high historical value. Music is also very much connected with the Abbey, You can enjoy the famous Gregorian Chant every evening in the Abbey church.