Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Melk....a 900 year old abbey in the 21 st century

July 17....

The Abbey of Melk was a surprise....instead of being treated to yet another exquisitely beautiful old set of buildings, Melk has taken a leap forward in its presentation to the world....the renovated painting on the gables of the building should have given me a clue...

Inside......audio, video, blue lights, mirror reflections, paintings on ceilings, sculptures sticking out of walls, a veritable sons et lumieres not appreciated by all. I found the juxtaposition of old and new energizing.

The library which houses one of the largest collections of illuminated manuscripts in the world, is under heavy security, not just because of the hordes of tourists, but also because it seems to be a dilm set currently. No photos allowed.

The ceiling in the reception room, which appears to be vaulted, is trompe d,oeil.