The buildings of some medieval monasteries survive to this day, and a number have been restored. Several medieval monasteries have been identified as important cultural and historical sites. These monasteries include Haghpat in Armenia (tenth century), Pannonhalma in Hungary (tenth century), and Fontenay in France, Maulbronn in Germany, Poblet in Spain, and Santa Maria d'Alcobaca in Portugal (all twelfth century).

As the Middle Ages drew to a close, the influence of monasteries declined and their numbers decreased. Yet the monasteries had played a significant role in life of the Middle Ages. At a time when civilization was threatened from many quarters, they preserved culture and helped to stabilize society. Monks copied ancient writings that might have been lost otherwise. They produced manuscripts and historical records that others could then read. Monks also built exemplary farms and gardens, using some ancient techniques and developing effective...