Reichenau Abbey

Reichenau Abbey on Reichenau Island

Reichenau Abbey was founded in 724 by Saint Pirmin. Later the abbey became famous for the Reichenauer Malschule. This term comprises lavishly illuminated manuscripts created during the late 10th and early 11th centuries.

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Sundial on Reichenau Abbey

Sundial on Reichenau Island, Germany

This sundial is located on a wall of Reichenau Abbey on Reichenau Island. It shows not only the motto ‘Pray and Work’ (ora et labora) but also Saint Pirmin, the founder of Reichenau Abbey. The two snakes refer to the fact that he is considered to be a patron against snake bites.

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Late Carolingian frescoes on Reichenau Island

Late Carolingian frescoes on Reichenau Island, Germany

At St George’s Basilica I had the change to see some frescoes showing scenes of Jesus Christ’s life described in the bible. Though I had always thought they were of Ottonian period I was told they were created even earlier, so they are considered late Carolingian (9th century).

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