

A View of St. Michael's
Here is a view of the 11th century Benedictine monastery from the Neue Residenz's rose garden. Unfortunately, the roses were not in bloom.
was founded in 1127, by the reform order of Cistercians who sought to re-establish the rule of St. Benedict in its original austerity by means of seclusion, liturgical plainness, (hence, I believe, the blandness of the church’s exterior), and an ascetic style of living emphasizing manual labor. As plain as the church was on the outside, the opposite was true of the interior. It was mind boggling in that as you enter the church the interior walls became so alive in vivid colors. I don’t think my photos do justice to the colors and beauty of the interior. 

St. Michael's
This eleventh century Benedictine monastary sits atop one of the highest of the seven hills overlooking the city. The modern monastary was largely rebuilt after fire damage in 1610, and thus combines the architectural styles of the original Romanesque with the later, slightly less inspiring, Gothic. In the cellars of the front courtyard you can also find the Frankisches Brauereimuseum, which shows off the fine history of Bamberg\'s brewing industry, from the time of the monk\'s first beers to the modern day. (Unfortunately it was closed when we were there) Why is there a statute of what appears to be Mercury in front of the church? I have no idea except maybe as a speedy messenger service for prayers to God.
and the Main River that flows through the area combined for some great photos.
steve
non-member comment
Bamburg
I spent 2 years in Bamburg and hated to leave. The culture the food and of course the great beer.
From Blog: Bamberg, Germany & Surrounding Areas