Regensburg (Part 1)

Still in Germany, and on to Regensburg. A pretty city. We both liked it, especially Barry. More castles, of course, and more cathedrals – specifically St. Peter’s Cathedral. The church has existed since 700 A.D. but experienced quite a few devastating fires. Our guide noted that recently (recently!!), as in late 1200’s/early 1300’s , the church was rebuilt (in parts) in its current High Gothic style. Inside there is an immense amount of sculpted imagery depicting mostly saints but also the famous “Smiling Angel” – representing the Gospel.  The church is also the burial place of several bishops, archbishops, Prince bishops. I am not at all a religious person but that certainly doesn’t prevent me from appreciating the beauty and symbolism rampant in these wonderful buildings. Walking over the bones and dust of various bishops and saints creeps me out somewhat – but I just channel Indiana Jones and I am fine.

Regensburg lies at the foot of the Bavarian Forest – dark and thick and reminiscent of tales of the Hounds of the Baskervilles. It is a medieval town, a Unesco World Heritage site, and has been around since the 9^th century. Here we saw buildings that spanned 2,000 years! Ancient Roman, Romanesque, and Gothic buildings all stare each other down around the same square. Here we were shown medieval patrician houses (which are now residential apartments) with huge frescos painted on them – David and Goliath, for example (dating from the 13^th century and has only been retouched once in all that time). Lots of rich people lived in Regensburg over the centuries – dukes, kings, bishops.