Hike to Bebenhausen Monastary (25-01-04)

The earth covered in a white blanket of snow created the perfect start for a perfect day. We started hiking at 13:00 and the whole hike should rather be classified as a snowballfight than a hike. The snow was rather irresistable for us South Africans who are only used to sunshine and beaches, and white balls of snow were constantly flying through the air. Even our kind guide, Eduard, was not spared and had to take a battering.
It was only when we entered the Bebenhausen Monastry that the fighting ceased. The cloister, which was built toward the end of the 15th century, as well as the rest of the monastary, enchanted all of us and for a moment we were taken back in time. I felt that the peace and tranquility which existed there years ago, were still present and for a while I expected to see a monk pass by any second. The simplicity of the monks' bedrooms on the one hand, and the beauty of their artworks on the other, illustrated and emphisized their dedication to God and their beliefs. The visit was very touching and insightfull and I enjoyed learning (and to a certain extend, experiencing) a bit about this lifestyle. This day will certainly be engraved in my memories forever.