Shortly before 800 the missionary Ludger entered the area of Helmstedt with Charlemagne in order to convert the Saxons.

The monastery's position on this important trade route was extremely advantageous in the Middle Ages, as great financial benefits derived from the constant passage of traders.

The monastery was secularised during the Napoleonic Wars, in 1802, and the possession of the site passed to the Dukes of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel, after which it was managed as an agricultural estate.

The buildings, including the monastery church, suffered severe damage during World War II, but have been restored.

The monasteries were managed in tandem, as reflected in the arms of both houses, each of which bears twin abbots' staffs.