Lüne Abbey was founded in 1172 by Hildeswidis von Markboldestorp. In the founding document by Bishop Hugo of Verden, there is no mention of the observances to be followed, so that it is assumed that it was a chapter of canonesses. Not until 1272 was the monastery described in a document as an abbey for Benedictine nuns and only from the mid-14th century is a full adoption of Benedictine observances recorded. The abbey was overseen by an abbess. Its administration and pastoral care was placed in the charge of a provost elected by the nuns. Lüne belonged to the Bursfelde Congregation.