Novacella Abbey in Neustift, Italy

The history of Neustift Abbey, also known as Novacella Abbey, dates back to the early 12th century, specifically the 1140s, when the Bishop of Brixen, Blessed Hartmann, appointed the abbey’s leadership. The site chosen for the abbey was strategically located at the crossroads of important Alpine routes. A short 45-minute drive west of the abbey lies the Brenner Pass, one of the primary Alpine passes, historically used to connect Northern Europe with Italy. This pass, with its low altitude and relatively mild climate, has served as a vital route for armies, merchants, and pilgrims for centuries. By the 10th century, the settlement of Brixen (then known as Prihsna) had grown, becoming a stronghold of the Catholic Church and an important stop for pilgrims traveling southward toward Rome.

Foundation and Early Growth (1142-1257)

The foundation of Neustift Abbey took place in 1142, under the guidance of Bishop Hartmann of Brixen. The abbey’s mission was closely tied to the growing movement of religious reform in the Holy Roman Empire, with the aim of providing shelter and spiritual services to the passing pilgrims on their way to Rome and the Holy Land. The abbey was consecrated in 1143, and Pope Innocent II granted it legal recognition on April 9 of the same year, confirming its possessions and role in the region. The Augustinian Canons Regular, who had a particular emphasis on providing hospitality to travelers, established their monasteries along important roads. Neustift was no different, positioned as a key waypoint for pilgrims and travelers traversing the Alps. Over the years, the abbey expanded, acquiring significant land and rights in the region. In 1221, the abbey was granted patronage rights over the parish of Olang, and by 1257, it had incorporated the parish of Völs. In 1261, the archbishops of Salzburg transferred the parish of Assling to the abbey’s jurisdiction.

Cultural and Architectural Development (14th-16th Century)

The 14th and 15th centuries saw significant architectural development at the abbey. Notably, in the late Gothic period (15th century), the abbey’s choir was constructed, showcasing the period’s distinctive steep roof style and housing altarpieces by renowned artists such as Michael and Friedrich Pacher, Meister von Uttenheim, and Max Reichlich. The abbey also became a center for liturgical music, with the choir achieving high levels of artistic expression. Between 1439 and 1446, the canon Friedrich Zollner composed a two-volume gradual, and Stephan Stetner created a missal that was later exhibited at the 19th-century World’s Fair in Vienna. During this time, the abbey’s role as a sanctuary for pilgrims continued to thrive, as the site was known for its hospitality and its rich religious and cultural offerings. Dominican theologian Felix Faber of Augsburg visited the abbey in 1483 and noted its large church, precious ornaments, and well-regarded library in his travel memoirs.

Challenges and Rebuilding (16th-18th Century)

The abbey faced significant challenges in the late 12th century, including a destructive fire in April 1190 that caused extensive damage to the structure. However, under the leadership of Provost Konrad II of Rodank, reconstruction efforts began, and by 1198, the abbey church was reconsecrated. A newly built hospital chapel, dedicated to the Redeemer (now known as the Chapel of St. Michael or Engelsburg), was also consecrated at this time. Through the 16th and 17th centuries, the abbey continued to flourish both spiritually and culturally, maintaining its reputation as a center of education, religious activity, and artistic achievement. The abbey’s buildings were expanded and renovated, incorporating new styles and functions.

Napoleonic Suppression and Restoration (1807-1816)

The Abbey of Novacella, like many religious institutions in Europe, faced significant hardship during the early 19th century under the influence of the Napoleonic reforms. In 1807, in line with Napoleon’s policy of suppressing religious orders, the Bavarian authorities dissolved the abbey. However, after the fall of Napoleon and the return of Tyrol to the Austrian Empire in 1813, the abbey was restored in 1816 under the orders of Emperor Francis II. This restoration allowed the abbey to regain its rights and assets, which had been stripped away during the previous decade.

Educational and Pastoral Mission (20th Century to Present)

Throughout its long history, Neustift Abbey has maintained a strong educational vocation. Since its foundation, the Canons Regular of St. Augustine have been involved in the education of children, and today the abbey continues this tradition through a middle school attended by students from Bressanone and surrounding areas. In 1970, the abbey expanded its educational mission by establishing a conference center, which now hosts various events and initiatives for people of all ages. Additionally, the abbey has also become a center for pastoral care related to tourism and biblical studies, further emphasizing its role in the religious and cultural life of the region. The abbey’s commitment to ecological awareness is reflected in the establishment of the Ökozentrum Neustift (Ecological Center Neustift) in 1988, a center focused on environmental sustainability. Today, visitors can explore the abbey’s Baroque church, dedicated to the Madonna, which is rich with works of art. The historic garden, which underwent extensive restoration between 2000 and 2003, is now open to the public. In addition, the abbey continues to be a place of spiritual reflection and a beacon of cultural and environmental stewardship.