Excavations on Reichenau: Discovery of the first monastery harbor planned!

Excavations on Reichenau: Discovery of the first monastery harbor planned!

The island of Reichenau, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, is attracting attention with an exciting research excavation. From June 24th to July 18th, 2025, the State Office for Monument Preservation (LAD) will be active on the monastery island to solve the mystery of the first port or ship landing place from the time the monastery was founded. On a site between Haitostrasse and Burgstrasse, archaeologists hope to find evidence of this mysterious place that once played an important role in Reichenau's history. The first preliminary investigations with ground radar and drilling samples have already provided promising information: the former shoreline of the island was about 100 meters further south and the bay at that time was protected from the wind by the Baurenhorn, ideal conditions for landing boats.

“The excavations are an excellent opportunity to learn more about our history,” says Dr. Bertram Jenisch, the excavation manager, who will also offer a public tour on July 9, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. No registration is required for interested citizens, but it is recommended to bring weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Questions about the excavation can be directed to Dr. Jenish to be judged.

An important place in history

Around 1,000 years ago, the monastery island of Reichenau was a center of the Christian West in the areas of religion, politics, science and art. Remnants from this period, including churches and murals, are an integral part of the islanders' lives and still shape their traditions today, including annual holidays and agricultural activities. The entire island was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000, which has increased the commitment to safeguarding these valuable remains. The Reichenau Monastery Island World Heritage Foundation works to enable access to these historical treasures for current and future generations, as well as to establish connections to the religious, ruling and everyday world of the monastery.

An important aspect of the archaeological discoveries is the diversity of buildings on the island. The architecture has changed over the centuries and testifies to the religious and cultural importance of the Benedictine monastery. Particularly noteworthy are the remarkable architectural elements of the churches, which come from different construction phases and therefore represent outstanding examples of monastic architecture between the 9th and 11th centuries.

The built and natural beauty

The island not only offers architectural highlights, but also impressive nature reserves that separate the former agricultural areas from modern building areas. These areas provide a view of the island's original landscape and its development over the centuries. Unfortunately, many 19th-century reconstructions have been largely eliminated, resulting in the reduction of the complex historical layering of the buildings.

All the elements that express the exceptional universal value of the island are present in the buildings and reflect the socio-economic structure of the Middle Ages. The assessment ranges from the religious heritage to the highly valued wall paintings, which provide an insight into the artistic significance of Reichenau.

The archaeological excavations and the associated public events offer a wonderful opportunity to familiarize yourself with this unique history and to make a valuable contribution to the research and preservation of the cultural heritage of the island of Reichenau. If you have the opportunity, you shouldn't miss it. There is a lot to discover!