A Tour of Saint Meinrad Archabbey

Posted on May 27, 2015

The grounds of Saint Meinrad Archabbey are beautiful at any time of the year, but perhaps summer is the most enjoyable time to take a tour. If you’re enjoying a getaway weekend, here are a few things to do on the campus of this 160-year-old Benedictine monastery.

Take a tour of Saint Meinrad Archabbey:

• Learn about the history and buildings of the Archabbey as you walk through the main public areas on a monk-lead tour. The tour leaves the Guest House lobby at 1:30 p.m. (Central time) on Saturdays. On other days, pick up a brochure at the Guest House and follow the self-guided walking tour.  • Stroll through the monastery rock garden to enjoy the flowers and new blooms on the trees. It’s also fun to watch the fish swimming around the fish ponds. • Visit the outdoor shrines. You can walk through the Stations of the Cross, located near the Guest House. The St. Joseph Shrine is a nice walk across Highway 545, and a shrine to the Virgin Mary can be found near the lakes. • Spend some time in silence. Some people simply sit on one of the outdoor benches, while others visit the Archabbey Church or take the short drive to Monte Cassino Shrine for some reflection time. • Listen to chant. The monks pray five times a day, and you’re always welcome to join them. A Visitor’s Guide brochure lists the prayer times and other helpful info. Find more info on the Saint Meinrad Archabbey's website.   Guest post by Mary Jeanne Schumacher from Saint Meinrad Archabbey.