Germany: Lorsch Abbey

Lorsch Abbey was founded around 764 AD and became one of the most important and influential monasteries of the Carolingian Empire under Charlemagne, serving as a major center for politics, culture, education, and religion at the time. At its height in the 9th century, it controlled vast estates and produced farms important manuscripts (most are now in Vatican). Its library was among Europe’s richest and the famous Lorsch Pharmacopoeia (was written here in 795 AD, a medical text based on ancient sources. The main building here is Tonnhalle – a monumental Carolingian entrance built in 800 AD – it totally dominated the ground and is quite impressive. It is a UNESCO Wirkd Heritage site.