The Muri monastery complex was founded in 1027 and is one of the most important cultural monuments in the canton of Aargau. Its church contains a Romanesque crypt, a Gothic high choir and a Baroque central structure. Museums covering topics from monastic history to medicine add to this cultural destination; Murimoos and natural attractions in the district of Muri offer a different focus.
Monastery complex and museums
At the Muri Monastery Museum, the exhibition tells stories from the lives of the abbots and monks, as well as the Habsburgs. The Caspar Wolf Museum has a different focus: its collection includes oil paintings, gouaches, drawings and prints by the artist. A permanent display of Caspar Wolf’s work is complemented by changing cabinet exhibitions. As the exhibition design may change, check the current display in advance if you are interested.
The Museum of Medical History Books in Muri invites visitors on a journey through the history of medicine and natural history. The “Images of the Body” theme includes a second edition from 1555; the display may change. By contrast, the Museum between Plough and Grain explores changes in rural life in the Freiamt over the past 100 years. Muri thus brings together different approaches to history: monastic life, art, medicine and regional everyday history.
Private or public guided tours, as well as visits to the monastery complex and other sights, can be booked through Muri Info or the Murikultur visitor centre. As booking arrangements may change, check the current options in advance if you are planning a visit or tour.
Murimoos and nature in the district of Muri
Murimoos is a local recreation area with a large playground. Along the Murimoos Trail, visitors can see the animals at the Murimoos farms. There is also a large stork population, with around 50 breeding pairs; the number may change. The route, access to the animals and leisure activities may also change. Check the current conditions before your visit.
The district of Muri offers opportunities for hiking and cycling. The region’s natural attractions include the Feldenmoos ponds and Lindenberg. From Lindenberg, views stretch between the Bünztal and Seetal valleys as far as Lake Hallwil and Lake Baldegg. These places and activities are located in the district and extend the experience beyond the town’s cultural attractions.
The Freiämterweg is a regional nature and culture trail. It passes through the natural landscapes of the Freiamt and by landmarks reflecting the region’s cultural diversity; Muri is one possible starting point. Another seasonal highlight is the Räbenlichterumzug lantern parade in Muri. It takes place every year in early November for kindergarten children and pupils in first and second grade. The date and route may vary. If the event is important to your travel plans, check the latest information.
For a stay focused on architecture and museum collections, the monastery complex and museums offer a range of topics to explore. Those who would like to include nature and outdoor activities can also consider the attractions in the district of Muri. When planning your stay, the differences between the cultural sites, Murimoos and the regional trails can help you decide what to focus on.
Discover more destinations: Beinwil, BesenbĂĽren, BĂĽnzen, Sins, MĂĽhlau, Abtwil, Aristau.
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