Tholey Abbey in Germany’s Saarland a Model in Unity

Travel is quite possibly one of the best forms of education available, and when we have the opportunity to visit a place like Tholey Abbey, located in Germany’s smallest state of Saarland, we not only get an education in history but also in the way humankind can create something beautiful despite cultural and religious differences.

This Benedictine abbey, dedicated to St. Maurice, is Germany’s oldest monastery, yet also one of the country’s most progressive monasteries. Located in the small town of Tholey, it is home to 12 monks of the Benedictine order, who provide regular services for the local community, harvest honey, brew beer and run an on-site guest house for visitors. In addition, they lovingly care for the church and its grounds, welcoming visitors to experience the old-world charm and beautiful serenity of the property.

© Eugenia Lazaris

Not only are the grounds beautiful to explore and the monastery home to a rich history dating back centuries, but the church itself is also home to an incredible collection of stained-glass artwork embodying the progressive and inclusive approach this church takes to the world. The church’s most famous pieces, three windows created by renowned German artist Gerhard Richter, are prominently displayed behind the altar, while a series of 34 smaller pieces by artist Mahbuda Maqsoodi flank the church with images depicting various events of religious significance.

While these stunning examples of glass craftsmanship sit side by side in a Catholic monastery, the two artists’ styles are as contrasting as the artists themselves. The male Richter, whose windows look like colorful kaleidoscope images, reportedly does not belong to a specific church. Maqsoodi, whose windows give the impression of etched paintings on glass, is a Muslim woman originally from Afghanistan. Combined, the artwork draws visitors of all walks of life and all religions from around the world to this small town of just more than12,000 residents.

There are also hidden touches throughout the church portraying interesting takes on significant religious events that will really make you stop and think. One such example is the set of brass doors at the entrance of the church that are engraved with a crucifix scene that includes soldiers carrying machine guns. Another is a window high up on a wall across from the entryway created by Maqsoodi depicting Adam and Eve being tempted by the apple. In Maqsoodi’s version of this classic story, Adam and Eve are both holding apples, implying the blame should have been equally shared between the two rather than landing solely at the feet of the woman in the relationship.