Zeven

Zeven grew around a women's religious house moved here from Heeslingen in 1141. The new site was chosen for its greater seclusion, and the community adopted the Benedictine rule. Its estates and tithes extended over villages in the surrounding countryside, while the archbishops of Bremen exercised authority over the foundation. The convent's officers included a provost, a prioress and women responsible for its stores, property and teaching. Church and monastery gave the small settlement its importance long before the growth of a larger town.