Kloster Chorin

One of the most significant brick ruins in Northern Germany is not located in a city, but in the middle of the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve, just over an hour from Berlin. The former Cistercian monastery in the village of Chorin combines medieval architecture with one of Brandenburg's most beautiful music festivals.

Chorin Monastery: Brick Gothic in the Heart of Schorfheide

About an hour’s drive from Berlin, in the Schorfheide Biosphere Reserve, lies the former Cistercian monastery of Chorin, founded in the 13th century and still characterized by its impressive Brick Gothic architecture. It is one of the most significant preserved monuments of early Brick Gothic in Brandenburg. So, if you’re planning a trip to Brandenburg, you can hardly miss this place.

The monastery was built in 1273 as a family monastery for the Margrave of Brandenburg. Its form and ornamentation are reminiscent of the great cathedrals of Cologne, Paris, or Siena. After its secularization in 1542, the complex fell into disrepair until the ruins were restored and partially rebuilt in the early 19th century under the direction of Karl Friedrich Schinkel. Thus, the monastery also carries a layer of Prussian art history within it.

Concerts, Markets, and Guided Tours All Year Round

Concerts, guided tours, markets, and spiritual offerings: Chorin Monastery hosts events for all ages throughout the year. The cultural heart is undoubtedly the Chorin Music Summer. With 18 concerts and a wealth of first-class orchestras, soloists, and singers, the festival brings classical, jazz, crossover, and world music to the stage in Brandenburg’s most beautiful concert hall. The Chorin Music Summer invites you to a classical picnic in the monastery ruins.

Twice a year, at Easter and in October during the Herb and Ceramic Days, Chorin Monastery offers a special program for adults and children. In the entrance area, you’ll find the monastery shop and tourist information, where in addition to admission tickets, products by local artisans such as ceramics, glass art, or jewelry are available. Those arriving with children will also find suitable options: In addition to general guided tours, the monastery offers special museum educational programs for school classes, children’s birthdays, or project days. The monastery is also easily accessible by train: The RE 3 from Berlin goes directly to the historic Chorin train station.