Reichersberg Priory

Reichersberg Priory, also known by its German name Stift Reichersberg, is a historic monastery belonging to the Innviertel Congregation of the Austrian Augustinian Canons. It is situated on the banks of the Inn River in the municipality of Reichersberg, Upper Austria.

History and Significance

The monastery's origins date back to the late 11th century when the nobleman Wernher von Reichersberg, along with his wife Dietburga, converted their possessions into a monastic foundation. This occurred in 1084, following the early death of their only son, Gebhard. From its inception, the priory has been under the stewardship of Augustinian Canons. The early decades saw some flux in ownership, but under the influence of figures like Archbishop Conrad I of Salzburg and Provost Gerhoh, the monastery began to flourish. Gerhoh, an eminent theologian, served as provost for thirty years and composed significant theological works during his tenure, including a commentary on the Psalms.

The priory's architectural landscape has evolved considerably. The original structures were built in a Romanesque-Gothic style. However, a devastating fire in 1624 necessitated extensive rebuilding, resulting in the large Baroque complex that stands today. This Baroque era also saw artistic contributions, such as frescoes by Christian Wink and a marble fountain by Thomas Schwanthaler.

Reichersberg Priory has navigated periods of significant historical upheaval. Its assignment to Austria in 1779 helped it avoid the secularization that affected many Bavarian monasteries. It faced considerable challenges during the Napoleonic Wars, including a period of administration, before resuming normal monastic life in 1817. During World War II, the priory was compelled to host a flying school but managed to avoid being closed down.

Today

In the present day, Reichersberg Priory continues its active role as a spiritual and cultural center. As of recent records, it houses approximately twenty canons. The monastery has undergone renovations and now serves as a prominent cultural hub for the Innviertel region. Its facilities include an extensive library with 55,000 volumes and a valuable collection of religious art, accessible to the public through guided tours. The priory actively hosts exhibitions, seminars, and garden days, and features amenities such as a shop, wine shop, restaurant, and accommodation for seminar attendees. A notable event in its recent history was the discovery and subsequent sale of a genuine Rubens painting, "The Massacre of the Innocents," for over €75 million.