1. HomepageHomepage
  2. United States
  3. Pennsylvania
  4. Ephrata
  5. Current: Historic Ephrata Cloister
  Manage this page
4.11 rating
  Save museum

Historic Ephrata Cloister and its collection

Historic Ephrata Cloister
Source

The Ephrata Cloister, located in Pennsylvania, North America, was established in 1732 by German immigrant Johann Conrad Beissel. This semi-monastic community was part of the pietistic-baptist movement of the Schwarzenau Brethren, also known as Tunker or Dunkers. Today, the cloister serves as a public museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the unique history and culture of this religious community.

Unique Practices of the Ephrata Cloister Community

The Ephrata Cloister community was distinctive for its practices, including the celebration of the Sabbath on Saturdays and an openness to celibate ideas. The community established the cloister on the banks of the Cocalico creek in 1732, marking the beginning of a unique religious community that would leave a lasting impact on the region.

Ephrata Cloister as a National Historic Landmark

The Ephrata Cloister holds significant historical value, recognized by its status as a National Historic Landmark since December 1967. It is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District. These designations underscore the importance of the Ephrata Cloister in American history and its value as a cultural heritage site.

Read more…

DEEphrata Cloister
ENEphrata Cloister

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Religion Historic house Religious building

#38 History & Anthropology in Pennsylvania #26 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #9 Religion museums in Pennsylvania #2 Religious buildings in Pennsylvania #125 Religion museums in United States #37 Religious buildings in United States

#38 History & Anthropology in Pennsylvania #26 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #9 Religion museums in Pennsylvania #2 Religious buildings in Pennsylvania #125 Religion museums in United States #37 Religious buildings in United States
Historic Ephrata Cloister
632 W Main St
PA 17522 Ephrata
Pennsylvania

Images of Historic Ephrata Cloister

Visitor information Historic Ephrata Cloister

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday
12:00 – 16:00
Thursday
10:00 – 16:00
Friday
10:00 – 16:00
Saturday
10:00 – 16:00
Sunday
12:00 – 16:00

Admission

0 – 2Free
3 – 11US$6.00
12 – 64US$10.00
65+US$9.00
Active Duty MilitaryFree

Discounted rates for group tours by reservation.

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Historic Ephrata Cloister.

Location & Map

632 W Main St, Ephrata

Discover all museums in Ephrata

Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Historic Ephrata Cloister have been found.

Historic Ephrata Cloister Reviews

Historic Ephrata Cloister has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Historic Ephrata Cloister, located in Ephrata, Pennsylvania, offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of an 18th-century religious community. This well-preserved site features original buildings and provides informative tours that explain the history and practices of the Ephrata community.

    Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides who bring the cloister's history to life through their engaging presentations. The site's authenticity and the opportunity to see restored living quarters, meeting houses, and workshops are frequently praised. Many find the stories of the cloister's inhabitants and their way of life intriguing.

    However, some visitors note that the experience can be somewhat limited if you don't join a guided tour, as access to buildings may be restricted. A few mention that the site might not hold the interest of younger children for long periods.

    The grounds are well-maintained and peaceful, offering a pleasant environment for exploration. The on-site museum provides additional context with exhibits of artifacts and explanatory displays.

    While the Historic Ephrata Cloister may not appeal to everyone, it is generally regarded as an educational and worthwhile stop for those interested in American religious history or colonial-era life.

    Read more…

  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

Write a review

Your review helps other people learn about great and less great museums. If you've visited Historic Ephrata Cloister, you can write your review below! Please pay attention to our content guidelines before you post your review.

Nearby and in or around Ephrata

Discover museums near Historic Ephrata Cloister in or around Ephrata.

Discover all museums in Ephrata