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