About Hildegard of Bingen

“Be a feather on the breath of God.” Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179)

Saint Hildegard of Bingen (1098—1179) was a German writer, composer, philosopher, Christian mystic, Benedictine abbess, and visionary.

At a time when few women wrote, St Hildegard produced major works of theology and visionary writings. She is the first composer whose biography is known.

She composed 77 songs, including an “opera” – or morality play set to music – which was far ahead of its time. She left over 70 poems and nine books, and in an age when few women were accorded respect, she served as an advisor to bishops, popes, and kings.

She used the curative powers of natural objects for healing, and wrote treatises about natural history and the medicinal uses of plants, animals, trees and stones. She founded two vibrant convents, where her musical plays were performed.

Learn more about Saint Hildegard of Bingen.