The founding of the Monastery in the 12th century was profoundly influenced by the reform movement within the orders of monks. This can be seen in the impressive simplicity of Romanesque architecture with its complete lack of all forms of ornamental or decorative elements.
Central buildings of the Monastery, such as the Basilica and the Lay Brothers' Dormitory, have retained this architectural impression up to today.

The newly developed possibilities of Gothic architecture which became available during the High and Late Middle Ages were used to modernize some rooms, such as the Monks' Dormitory or the Chapter Hall, as well as to enhance the burial chapels along the southern aisle of the Basilica.

The Peasants' War which broke out in the wake of the Reformation led to the occupation of the Abbey and to the emptying of the then world's largest wine barrel, which thereafter fell apart.

The Thirty Years' War which began as a religious conflict led to a renewed occupation of the Abbey and the loss of a large portion of its furnishings as well as the Library.

During the epoch of Absolutism, the Eberbach monks also strove to emulate the then typical Baroque style display of splendor. Historical buildings, such as the Monks' Refectory, the Lay Brothers' Building and the Gate House were remodeled, and new buildings, such as the Orangery and the Abbot's Cottage, were erected.

Following the French Revolution and the subsequent secularization of the church properties under Napoleon the Monastery experienced the dismantling of some cloister wings for private use and the sell-off of almost all of its interior furnishings.