Destination Melk....
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We
are now in the Nibelungengau, the mystical place where many of the
Germanic legends recorded in the epic poem of the "Nibelungenlied"
are said to have taken place. It is here that Siegfried and his
hero cohorts fought their ancient battles.
Today,
a modern hydroelectric dam spans the river and extracts energy
that once resided in Wotan's thunderbolts. |
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Marbach we check our progress at one of the many excellent and
well-kept rest spots along this marvellous bike trail and stop for
lunch. High up on a hill, in the distance, we can see the famous
place of pilgrimage, Maria Taferl with its impressive cathedral. |
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A little time
later, the Benedictine abbey of Melk becomes visible on the
horizon.
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This abbey, one
of the best examples of baroque church and temporal architecture
is a wonder to behold. It is a pearl of baroque art. Its extensive
library of handwritten manuscripts, its marble hall, its treasury,
and its wonderful church are a delight for any visitor.
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Filled with
many memories, we stroll back to our hotel and a sumptuous supper.
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