Roland Reinstadler's 'In Umbra Lucis' Captures Life in a Teutonic Order Monastery

Photographer Roland Reinstadler has received special permission to document the Lanegg monastery in Lana, South Tyrol, Italy, for his new book, 'In Umbra Lucis,' published by GOST. This work offers an intimate glimpse into the secluded life of the Teutonic Order, highlighting its architecture and the everyday activities of nuns and priests. Through the prior's help, he captured touching scenes like an 84-year-old prior reading the Bible before meals and 78-year-old Sister Josefa tending to plants in the greenhouse. The book also includes images of a young candidate's initiation, pilgrims leaving a mountain church in St Leonhard in Passeier, and the enchanting evening ambiance of the Passeier valley. A moving shot of abandoned crucifixes at Säben abbey symbolizes the decline of religious communities. Reinstadler describes this book as a personal journey into faith and the complexities of the church. Pre-orders for 'In Umbra Lucis' are available from GOST.