Abbey of Reichenau, Benedictine monastery on Reichenau Island, Germany.
The Abbey of Reichenau is a Benedictine monastery on an island in Lake Constance, consisting of three Romanesque churches. The complex spans about 4.3 square kilometers and forms a connected ensemble of religious and monastic buildings.
A bishop named Pirmin founded this site in 724 with support from a Frankish ruler, creating an institution that shaped medieval monastic tradition. Over centuries, it remained an influential center of faith and learning.
The scriptorium here became known throughout medieval Europe for handwritten and illuminated books that were distributed widely. This writing tradition made the site a major center for preserving and sharing knowledge.
A causeway connects the island to the mainland, allowing access by car or bus from the nearby city of Konstanz. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since exploring the churches and island grounds requires walking.
Inside the Church of St George are wall paintings from the tenth century depicting scenes of Christ's miracles, among the most valuable examples of medieval religious art. These frescoes reveal the artistic skill that developed at this site during the Ottonian period.
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