Germany: Campaigners fight to save historic Birgittine library

Scholars in Germany have expressed concern for the future of a unique collection of late medieval manuscripts and books, after church authorities announced the closure of the monastery in which they were kept.


Birgittine scholars discovered the unknown library in Altomünster, Bavaria, during a symposium in October 2015. The prioress Sister Apollonia Buchinger gave permission to have the collection assessed and documented by experts, but then in December 2015 the Vatican announced the closure of the historic Birgittine monastery.

Locks and steel doors were installed prohibiting the nuns from entering the chapter house, the library and other portions of the monastery. Many significant works of art were removed.

The Birgittenkloster, Altomünster, is one of only three remaining foundations from the original order founded by Saint Birgitta of Sweden in the 14th century. Altomünster is the only Birgittine monastery continuously inhabited since its initial settlement. It is believed that the present library constitutes more than 500 books, including manuscripts and incunabula, as well as associated archival sources.

With at least 14 late-medieval antiphoners, possibly as many as 30 processionals, and a large collection of 18th-century liturgical manuscripts, the collection promises to more than double the known sources documenting the performance of Birgittine chant. The unique illuminations, made for or by nuns, will serve to extend current understanding of women's religious practices during the late Middle Ages and early modern periods.

Campaigners have launched a petition to the papal administration of monastic orders and the diocese of Munich and Freising to guarantee the preservation and protection of the collection of manuscripts, printed books and associated archival documents of the Birgittine monastery at Altomünster.

For more information and to sign the petition, see: www.change.org/p/roman-catholic-archdiocese-munich-and-freising-newly-discovered-birgittine-manuscripts-at-risk-monastery-altom%C3%BCnster-germany