St. Augustinus, also known in its local language as Kloster St. Augustinus, is a fascinating historical gem nestled in the heart of Amberg, Bavaria. This former convent of the Visitandines, with its rich history, architectural beauty, and serene ambiance, offers a captivating experience for visitors and history enthusiasts alike.
The story of St. Augustinus begins in the late 17th century, thanks to the efforts of Henriette-Adélaïde de Savoie, the wife of Prince Ferdinand-Marie of Bavaria. On March 24, 1667, Pope Alexander VII officially established two communities of Visitandines: one in Munich and the other in Amberg. While the Munich convent was founded in 1671, it wasn't until January 18, 1692, that Elector Maximilian-Emmanuel of Bavaria, responding to the express wishes of Amberg's magistrates, initiated the establishment of the convent in Amberg. The convent was intended to house women who were expected to lead virtuous lives and work decently in the fear of God.
On April 25, 1692, seven nuns from the mother house in Munich arrived in Amberg and took up residence in temporary quarters. To ensure their sustenance, the revenues from the convents of Gnadenberg and Seligenporten, which had not been secured since the Reformation, were allocated to them. The construction of the convent began in 1693 and was completed in 1696, based on the plans of Wolfgang Dientzenhofer. The interior decoration was the work of the Italian stucco artist Giovanni Battista Carlone. The church of St. Augustinus was consecrated in 1699 by Bishop Coadjutor von Wartenberg. Under the leadership of Mother Viktoria von Orban, the church was painted and decorated by Bavarian artists, including Anton Landes for the stucco work and Gottfried Bernhard Götz for the frescoes.
By 1755, the flourishing convent was able to send six nuns to establish a branch in Sulzbach, known as the Convent of St. Hedwig. However, the secularization of all Bavarian monasteries in 1803, ordered by Napoleon to fund war expenses, led to the expropriation of the Amberg convent in 1804. The nuns sought refuge in Sulzbach, which was also secularized in 1809. At the end of the 18th century, the convent housed twenty-two professed nuns and six lay sisters. Their mission was to educate and instruct young girls free of charge, with 147 girls receiving education in 1782.
The secularization of the convent on March 2, 1804, forced the nuns to seek refuge in Sulzbach, where they were guaranteed a place to stay for life. Some nuns secularized themselves to continue teaching young girls. In 1805, the former convent was repurposed as a provincial library. The convent's pharmacy was auctioned off, along with the chaplain's residence. In 1839, the remaining premises were made available to the congregation of the Poor Sisters of Our Lady's Schools, who became the owners in 1849. Today, the former convent houses the Dr.-Johanna-Decker School, a girls' school under the Diocese of Regensburg.
The architectural splendor of St. Augustinus is a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders and decorators. The monastery buildings adjoin the choir of the St. Augustinus church, forming two irregular wings of three stories each. The facades are adorned with intricate plaster decorations, adding to the building's aesthetic appeal. Some rooms still showcase the stucco work from Carlone d'Allio's workshop, preserving the artistic heritage of the convent.
The church itself is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with its elegant design and elaborate interior decorations. The frescoes by Gottfried Bernhard Götz and the stucco work by Anton Landes create a visually stunning experience for visitors. The serene ambiance of the church, combined with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring Amberg.
Today, St. Augustinus stands as a symbol of Amberg's rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved buildings and marvel at the intricate architectural details. The Dr.-Johanna-Decker School, housed within the former convent, continues the tradition of education that the nuns began centuries ago.
As you wander through the historic streets of Amberg and approach St. Augustinus, you'll be transported back in time. The peaceful courtyards, the towering church spire, and the charming facades all contribute to the unique atmosphere of this historic site. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil place to reflect, St. Augustinus offers a memorable experience that captures the essence of Amberg's past.
In conclusion, St. Augustinus is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of the Visitandines and their dedication to education and virtue. Its walls echo with the stories of the nuns who once called it home, and its beauty continues to inspire visitors from around the world. A visit to St. Augustinus is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Amberg's history and the legacy of the Visitandines.
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