The Reliefs Depicting the Life of Hemma of Gurk
Reading Time: 2:15 min
Six reliefs in the Cathedral of Gurk depict the life of Saint Hemma of Gurk. They are accompanied by Latin captions, which are translated below.
Saint Hemma | Relief 1
Saint Hemma, Countess of Pöllenstein, granddaughter of Emperor Heinrich and wife of Count Wilhelm of Zeltschach, accepted Christ as her successor after her sons were murdered. Known for her deep piety, she was always ready to receive God’s word and prayed fervently for His mercy.
The Blessed Wilhelm | Relief 2
Saint Wilhelm rejected false praise and left his castle, humbling himself in obedience to God. He gave up everything–his home, brothers, and wife–out of love for God, journeying to the holy sites, never to return. True holiness comes only through the love of God.
Saint Hemma and the Church Construction | Relief 3
Saint Hemma began building a church in the wooded valley of Gurkhofen, now known as Gurk, in honour of God and the Holy Virgin Mary. She sought to complete the task quickly and without resistance. Her actions revealed the true importance of her mission.
Saint Hemma and Her Life as a Nun | Relief 4
With the approval of Abbot Waldwin, Archbishop of Salzburg, Saint Hemma founded a group of 72 women who wore religious attire. In his presence, she publicly declared herself a nun. Having renounced all possessions, she lived humbly, nurturing others. Like a tree with evergreen leaves and undamaged fruit, she continually performed good deeds, offering refuge and protection to all who sought her. She stood as steadfast as a castle’s rock.
Saint Hemma and Her Donations | Relief 5
Saint Hemma made generous gifts to many distant churches, especially to the one in Salzburg, where she wished to be buried. She also donated to the church in Bamberg, the monastery of Admont, and the spiritual brothers of Seitz (today Žiče), ensuring they received a permanent income. She provided daily alms for her neighbours and did all that pleased God in humility. Later, Archbishop Gotthard of Salzburg appointed many of the nuns as canons, following the rule of Saint Augustine.
The Death of Saint Hemma | Relief 6
Saint Hemma completed her works in 1045 AD on the feast day of Apostles Peter and Paul and gave her spirit to the Lord. She was buried in the Cathedral of Gurk in the Gurk Valley. Soon after, many miracles were attributed to her. They were recorded in her life story and celebrated to this day.