Monasticism in Medieval Central Europe (c. 800–c. 1550)

Abstract

This chapter assesses monasticism in medieval Central Europe. Noting the differences in the density of the monasteries in Central Europe and the European West, as well as a somewhat belated appearance of these communities compared to the European medieval West, it depicts a special diversity patterned by monastic foundations and “Western” models in the organization of monasteries’ structures. The chapter also notes some important links deriving from the proximity of Oriental Christianity, especially apparent in the monastic landscape of medieval Hungary. The common features of Central European monasticism were strengthened by interactions among the monks, regular canons and friars of the area, who often belonged to the same regular districts and studied at the same universities. Nevertheless, each country had its own specificities.