For more than 1000 years, the island of Reichenau was closely intertwined with monastic lifestyle. In fact, the island is more renowned worldwide for its monasteries than for anything else.
For more than 1000 years, the island of Reichenau was closely intertwined with monastic lifestyle. In fact, the island is more renowned worldwide for its monasteries than for anything else.
Some of the most elaborate Benedictine Monasteries are found here and they date as far back as the Middle Ages. A significant collection of 10th and 11th century art is found in the wall paintings found here. The churches found here are reminiscent of the 9th and 11th century European architecture.
The island is located in the reaches of the Lake Constance. The first abbot of Reichenau was tasked with building a monastery that would be dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul as well as Virgin Mary.
The Abbot oversaw the construction of the first wooden abbey on the shores of the island. In 746, the whole building was rebuilt. The monastery was gifted with large tracts of land, and the island eventually became an integral part of the island. The monastery became famous as a center for teaching creative arts, literature and science. It was consecrated in 1048 in the attendance of Emperor Henry III.
Attractions in the City
St. Peter at Niederzell – This was built a former Bishop of Verona in 799. It was rebuilt twice in 9th and 10th century. The church was rebuilt again in the 11th and 12th century, and its two towers were comp0leted in the 15th century. The church is a Romanesque structure of 3 aisles
Church of St. George – Abbot Heito III built this church on the eastern part of the island. It was built to honor the relic of saint’s head that he brought back from a voyage to Rome in 896. This church was constructed in the Romanesque architectural style, but it also bears some Carolingian Church.
Germans always outdo themselves whenever they embark on making something. This fact is more pronounced in the historic monastic island of Reichenau. Even from that early date, the Germans were master builders. If you love exploring ancient towns, you are going to have the fun of your life in Reichenau.