English: The Monastery of Cluny, France - Entrance to the Abbey.
Deutsch: Das Kloster von Cluny - Eingang zur Abtei.
Engraving: Unknown date.
Photo: 1926-1933.
Source: Fritz-Milkau-Dia-Sammlung,
erstellt in der Photographischen Werkstatt
der Preußischen Staatsbibliothek von 1926-1933.
Author: Émile Sagot (1805–1888).
(Wikimedia Commons)
Cluny Abbey.
Virtually reconstructed.
Available on YouTube at
Thank you yet again, Zephyrinus!
ReplyDeleteVery stunning and imaginative reproduction of what a part of the abbey of Cluny may have looked like. Of course, archaeological digs tell us that the main abbatial church of the period 1100’s - 1400’s (“Cluny II”: some historians group Cluny’s history into 3 epochs) must have been a grand design, stunning and much larger than we can imagine. And, from what pilgrims’ accounts tell us, it was ornately decorated and visually amazing.
To think that this abbey carried on for centuries.. one is dumbfounded.
Also, and Zephyrinus no doubt knows this, but the great church of Cluny III was allegedly the largest in Christendom until the building of New S. Peter’s in the 1500’s-1600’s. One can only marvel at what must have been its true splendor. The official Cluny site says that based on archaeological digs, only 10% of Cluny survives from that period to the present day. Amazing.
ReplyDeleteIndeed, Cluny (in all its three incarnations, especially Cluny III) must have been a sensational edifice. As you say, Dante Peregrinus, “one must have been dumbfounded”.
DeleteIncomprehensible how so much vitriol, hate, and evil, during The French Revolution, managed to destroy such a beautiful architectural diamond, which offered Worship, Praise, and Honour, to God Almighty.
I can imagine drawing it, although these old eyes are struggling with the pen.& ink I might have to stick with slapping paint about
ReplyDeleteI can imagine drawing it, although these old eyes are struggling with the pen.& ink I might have to stick with slapping paint about
ReplyDeleteI think it would be a magnificent challenge for you, John. Why not regard it as a “Slow Time” labour of love ?
DeleteA little bit, here, and a little bit, there.
And, hey presto, all of a sudden you have “Cluny IV”.
Best Wishes and a Mass is being said for you and Pat (R.I.P.) and the family, tomorrow.
in Domino