The Maulbronn WHS is a perfect example of a medieval monastery, the special feature is that not only the monastic buildings have been preserved but also the entire ensemble of administrative and farm buildings. And the complex is still surrounded by the medieval walls and towers. Furthermore, the surrounding countryside remained essentially unchanged with vineyards, orchards and artificial ponds. Maulbronn illustrates the way of life in a medieval monastery. Today, most buildings have a modern use as a visitor centre, the town hall, a police station or a restaurant. But Maulbronn is a quiet little town and the monastery is not crowded with tourists, it seems like time has stood still and you can easily think back in the Middle Ages.

I was twice in Maulbronn, the first time in the 1990s and then in June 2014, just one month after I visited the Poblet monastery. It was interesting to compare how the aesthetic principles of the Cistercians were realized at both sites. There are great similarities in style and layout of the rooms, it really appears like a standardized architectural concept: the restriction to the essential elements, the absence of ostentatious decoration, the use of high vaulted ceilings. And the result is impressive: a harmonious and functional architecture. In Maulbronn, I liked most the refectory and the atmospheric cloister (photo) with the fountain house. The church is the oldest part of the monastery, not really outstanding, most remarkable are the entrance hall, the so-called 'paradise', and the portal with the original door leaves from the 12th century.

Maulbronn is definitely worth a visit, if you go by car, it is only a twenty minute drive from the motorway.