Maria in Campis, also known as Sancta Maria te Campe or Mariënkamp, is a former monastery located in the heart of Assen, in the province of Drenthe, Netherlands. This historical site, now integrated into the Drents Museum and the Drents Archive, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's medieval past and its evolution over centuries.
The story of Maria in Campis begins in the aftermath of the Battle of Ane in 1227. The monastery was established near Coevorden as an act of penance for the death of Bishop Otto van Lippe. Initially, the monastery was part of the Cistercian order, a daughter house of the Abbey of Aduard. However, its original location in the marshlands proved to be unsuitable, prompting the abbess to request a relocation.
By 1259, the monastery had acquired lands near Deurze, and the community moved to the parish of Rolde, in the marke of Witten. Here, a new monastery complex was constructed on a sand ridge, which eventually grew into the present-day city of Assen. The monastery thrived in its new location, but disaster struck in 1418 when a fire destroyed much of the complex, necessitating a rebuild.
In 1460, Maria in Campis joined the Trinitarian order, further enriching its spiritual and cultural life. The monastery was a vibrant community of nuns, including young women from prominent families such as the Jarges and De Vos van Steenwijk. The monastery's holdings were extensive, including lands in Salland, the parish of Rolde and Selwerd, the Asserbos, a refuge in Oosterstraat in Groningen, and a farm in Matsloot.
Despite its prosperity, the Reformation brought significant changes. In 1602, the monastery's assets were confiscated, and the institution was officially dissolved. However, the nuns were allowed to remain for a time, with the last nun relocating to Groningen in 1630.
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Maria in Campis left a lasting architectural legacy in Assen. A drawing by Cornelis Pronk from 1735 depicts the Brink, with a priest's house on the left and, on the right, the abbey church, the west wing of the monastery, and the abbess's residence. Over time, these structures were repurposed to serve the administrative needs of the Drenthe region.
The abbess's house was replaced by the Drostenhuis between 1774 and 1776, while the west wing gave way to the Government Building constructed between 1882 and 1887. In the early 20th century, the site of the former east wing saw the construction of the State Archives, which also housed the Provincial Museum of Antiquities. Today, the abbey church and the archives still contain remnants of the old monastery complex.
Since the 1970s, the former monastery buildings, including the church, the Government Building, and the Drostenhuis, have been part of the Drents Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of regional history, art, and culture, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Drenthe. The Drents Archive, also housed in the former monastery complex, provides invaluable resources for researchers and history enthusiasts.
The museum's exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, from prehistoric artifacts and medieval relics to contemporary art and cultural history. The integration of the historic monastery buildings into the museum complex creates a seamless blend of past and present, allowing visitors to experience the evolution of Assen from its monastic origins to its modern-day significance.
The legacy of Maria in Campis extends beyond its physical structures. The seal of the Drenthe region, the coat of arms of Drenthe, and the coat of arms of Assen are all believed to be derived from the seal of the monastery. These heraldic symbols feature the image of Mary with the Christ child on her knee, a testament to the enduring influence of the monastery on the identity of the region.
In conclusion, a visit to Maria in Campis is not just a journey through the history of a monastery but a voyage through the history of Assen and the Drenthe region. The site encapsulates centuries of religious, cultural, and architectural evolution, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Dutch history. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Maria in Campis offers a captivating and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression.
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