the Benedictine church of Pannonhalma - the first quarter of the 13th century

Pannonhalma abbey
Pannonhalma - Crypt
Pannonhalma - Porta Speciosa 1
Pannonhalma - Porta Speciosa 4
Well dish from Pannonhalma
The first and richest Benedictine monastery, which was founded in Chief Prince Géza's time. It was completed during the reign of King Stephen, probably financed by a donation, which was given to the monastery in Somogy after Koppány's defeat. It was rebuilt after the fire of 1137, which is attributed to abbot David, but only a later version of it survived, which was consecrated in 1224, attributed to abbot Oros. The basilica with three naves and no transcept had a risen chancel with a three-naved crypt under it, which used to belong to the previous church. Although it had no function in the 13th century, it was preserved for reverence. From the monastery a red marble triumphal arch, called Porta Speciosa, leads to the church. The entrance of the monks is divided by six parts of white marble pillars standing on a high pedestal. The close of the gates is a richly dressed curved leaf decoration, which bends outwards.