The most impressive and unexpected sight at the monastery is the Mount Angel Abbey Library ... designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. The modest entrance obscures the fact that this is an architectural masterpiece. Only after we entered the library did the grandeur of the space make us gasp and mutter "Oh my". The interior has sweeping views, atrium lighting, and a magnificent display of rare hand printed books. Just about every piece of furniture, including the shelving, cabinets and light fixtures, was designed by Aalto ... giving the library a sense of complete design integration.

The Music Room.

Our memories of Mount Angel Abbey were tarnished when several months after our visit, we read that the Abby had to sell  most of their property around the city of Mount Angel to settle suits alleging sexual molestation.

(Page 4 of 4)

Copyright © 2006 TrailerGypsies.com. All Rights Reserved.