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Sancta Scala, Rome

I chose to include the Scala Sancta because of its significance to the traditions of the Catholic Church. These 28 marble steps, which some claim that Jesus climbed during his trial before Pilate, were brought to Rome by St. Helena around the 4th century. People from all over the world come to the Scala Sancta to walk the steps on their knees as a sign of faith.

The Scala Sancta is connected to the Reformation through Martin Luther’s pilgrimage to Rome in 1510. Luther climbed these stairs on his knees to hopefully receive indulgences for himself. However, he later claimed that this was just a ritual that gives into the idea that physical acts are more important than faith. This is an event that contributed to his writings in the 95 Theses.

One thing that surprised me while visiting the Scala Sancta was the preservation of the original marble steps. They were covered with wood to protect them from wear. I was also surprised to see people actually climbing on their knees. Seeing people physically carry out an act of faith like this was quite interesting.

(Photography is not allowed at this location, so here is a photo stolen from Google.)

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City of Munich

I chose to include the City of Munich in this assignment because it has both a historical and cultural significance in regards to the Reformation. Munich is often associated with the Catholic Church, which may cause you to wonder why I included it in an assignment about the Reformation. Munich was deeply rooted in Catholicism due to the city’s leaders, which led to it being known as a center of Catholic art and education. It became a political piece for the Catholic Church. It was kind of like the center of Catholic resistance to Protestantism. The Jesuits even created schools to reinforce Catholic doctrine. Munich also played a major role in the Thirty Years’ War. This was a huge conflict motivated by the deep tensions between the Catholics and the Protestants. 

One surprising element of visiting Munich was seeing how deeply the Counter-Reformation influence shaped the city’s culture and architecture. For example, St Michael’s Church has beautiful architecture influenced by both Renaissance and Baroque styles. It is fascinating to me to see how this certain architectural style was meant to counter Protestant architecture by emphasizing the sanctity of Catholic worship and worship settings.

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The Beguinage in Bruges

I chose to include the Beguinage in Bruges because it shows a very unique form of Christian community life in medieval Europe. Differing from traditional monastic orders, the Beguines were women who devoted their lives without taking any kind of formal vow. Their way of life was centered around service and independence. This surprised me as this is revolutionary for the time it took place. 

The Beguinage, like many other places in Europe, faced some challenges in the Reformation era. Protestant reformers would judge the Beguines for what they believed was in opposition to Catholic traditions. While it was not an official monastic order, the Beguines’ religious lifestyle was perceived by some the same way that monasticism was during the Reformation. Despite the religious tension, some of those at the Beguinage survived. As a result, the Beguinage continued to function as a place for religious women. 

One element that surprised me was the peaceful and secluded atmosphere of the Beguinage. Even though it is located in the midst of a busy city, this area was still meek and quiet. This environment seems to reflect the Beguines’ lifestyle and belief system. 

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Basilica of St. Servatius/Church of St. John, Maastricht

I chose to include these two churches because they stand side by side, showing the bold contrast between Protestant and Catholic churches. These two churches, despite being so close together, reflect different types of architecture and religious expression between the two churches. 

Both churches have a connection to the Reformation in the Netherlands. Maastricht was greatly affected by the religious tension in the 16th century. While the Basilica of St. Servatius was a pillar of Catholic tradition, the Church of St John played a role in the Protestant growth in the area. In a way, these two buildings symbolize the conflicts between the Catholics and Protestants. 

The Basilica of St. Servatius has the Romanesque style. It has rounded arches and thick walls. The atmosphere in the building is dim and quiet. On the other hand, the Church of St. John is an excellent example of Gothic architecture. It is a red tower that is visible from pretty much anywhere in Maastricht. The inside is lighter and has large windows that allow light to enter much more easily. 

One thing that surprised me was the bright red tower of the Church of St. John. From visiting other Gothic churches, it is odd to see such a vivid color in this style of architecture. 

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I chose Aix-la-Chapelle Cathedral, also known as the Aachen Cathedral, because it is a largely significant historical landmark connected to the reign of Charlemagne, an important figure in European history and the development of Christianity. His deep influence in the early stages of the Holy Roman Empire made this cathedral central to the Reformation’s origins. 

Aachen Cathedral holds a deep connection to the Reformation because Charlemagne’s empire sought to create religious unity throughout Europe. Although the cathedral was built before the Reformation began, it symbolizes medieval Christian authority that the Reformers would later challenge. 

One surprising element of this visit was learning about Charlemagne’s own canonization by the local church. His influence as a political figure and a Christian is still honored at this site, even though some aspects of his reign seem opposed to the modern idea of religious freedom.