Excursion: Abbey of Einsiedeln
Overview
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Intro
The trip to Einsiedeln is worthwhile if only for the beautiful alpine scenery visible from the train.
The Abbey has drawn visitors along its mountainous route since the 9th century, when the German monk Meinrad found retreat here. In the ensuing years Einsiedeln became a pilgrimage site, attracting visitors to St. Meinrad's resting place as well as to the 1,000-year-old Black Madonna icon (housed in the Lady Chapel in the church nave). The Abbey Church dates from the 18th century, its interior a riot of baroque ornamentation. Ceiling frescoes depict biblical scenes, and the apse and walls are adorned with vivid coral, orange and white cherubs and flourishes accented with lavender and gold leaf.
