Weingarten

The Eucharistic relic of Weingarten, known as the Holy Blood of Weingarten, is one of the most significant and historically complex relics in Germany, with a legendary history stretching back to the Crucifixion itself. According to medieval tradition, Longinus, the Roman soldier who pierced Jesus's side with a lance at the Crucifixion, caught some of the Sacred Blood that flowed from the wound and preserved it in a leaden box. This box was later buried at Mantua, Italy, where it remained hidden for centuries.

About this miracle

The relic was said to have been miraculously discovered in 804 and solemnly exalted by Pope Leo III in the presence of Emperor Charlemagne. However, due to the Hungarian and Norman invasions that threatened to destroy churches and relics across Europe, the Sacred Blood was again buried for safekeeping. In 1048, it was rediscovered and solemnly exalted by Pope Leo IX in the presence of Emperor Henry III and many other dignitaries in a grand ceremony that demonstrated the relic's immense importance. At this time, the relic was divided into three parts: Pope Leo IX took one portion to Rome, another was given to Emperor Henry III, and the third remained at Mantua.

The significance of the year 1094 relates to when this precious relic arrived at Weingarten in Upper Swabia. Emperor Henry III bequeathed his share of the relic to Baldwin V, Count of Flanders, who in turn gave it to his daughter Juditha. After Juditha's marriage to Welf I, Duke of Bavaria (founder of the influential Welf/Guelph dynasty), she presented the relic to the Benedictine abbey at Weingarten. The solemn ceremony of presentation took place on March 4, 1094 (some sources cite the initial presentation in 1090), establishing Weingarten as one of the great pilgrimage destinations of medieval Europe.

It was stipulated that annually on the Friday after the feast of the Ascension—which came to be known as Blutfreitag (Blood Friday)—the relic should be carried in solemn procession. This tradition has continued for over 900 years, and the Blutritt (Blood Ride) procession in Weingarten is today regarded as the biggest equestrian procession in Europe, with hundreds of riders participating in this spectacular display of faith and tradition. Scholars have noted chronological and political complexities in the legendary narrative, which was likely embellished over time to imbue the relic with greater cultural grandeur and legitimacy. Nevertheless, the relic has been venerated continuously for over nine centuries, and the Blutritt remains a powerful expression of Eucharistic devotion in the Catholic tradition.