Pelplin Abbey. The initiative to locate a new abbey was taken by Sambor II, the Prince of Pomerania. The monastery in doberan became the mother foundation ground for the new abbey. When the reign in Tczew region was seized by Msciwoj II, he granted to Cistercians a large property complex in the Tymawa region, on the right side of the Lower Wierzyca River, as well as Pelplin village, part of which was located on the left side of Wierzyca River. Cistercians of Pgodki moved to this area on 27th October 1276.

Pelplin Abbey owns its strong economyh to numerous endowments and subsidies. However, the friars were not only occupied with farming and craft. Pelplin Abbey was developing a writing culture throught the systematic expansion of the book collection. It also helped to develop the monastery's scriptorium.

Between the 13th and the 16th centuries, the monks erected a three-nave church on the Wierzyca River - it was the Church of the Day of Assumption, monastery and farm buildings. On the south side, the church was adjoined by a monastery built around a four-sided cloister garth. The eastern wing, intended for the Fathers, housed a sacristy, chapter house, parlour and bedrooms for monks. The south section, intended for novices, housed the dining rom and refectory. The western wing was occupied by laybrothers, i.e. brothers without the holy orders. The complex was supplemented by beautiful gardens, a mill on Wierzyca River and farm buildings.

THe monastery was finally closed down in 1823. The Bull of the 16th July 1821 expanded on Diocese of Chelmno and made Pelplin its capital (in 1992 it became the Diocese of Pelplin). The Cistercian church became a cathedral while the surrounding village expanded into a small town. The monastery houses the Priest Seminary and the Bishop's Collegium Marianum. Pope Paul VI granted the cathedral the title of the Small Basilica in 1965, a title it has had ever since.

Pelplin Abbey

Pelplin Abbey

Pelplin Abbey

Pelplin Abbey