Bregenz

In 2007 we were proud to celebrate the 20 year anniversary of the twinning of Bangor and Bregenz. St Columbanus is the common factor which provides an ancient link between our two towns.

The link was first proposed when in 1984 Monsignor Albert Holenstein wrote to North Down Borough Council suggesting that Bangor could present Bregenz with a stone to commemorate the opening of the church of St Kolumban in Bregenz. A suitable stone, weighing almost two tons, was located in the Long Hole Bangor and shipped to Bregenz. The stone, now considered "The Columbanus Stone" was duly installed outside the church with a plaque which bears the inscription in German, translated here into English:-

"Rock from the seashore of Bangor (Ireland). From there the Irish Saint Columban came to the destroyed Roman settlement of Brigantium as a missionary, where he taught the Christian faith with the help of God to our forbears around the years 610 to 612 before he proceeded to Bobbio (Italy)".(Bangor is of course a town within the United Kingdom)

 Bregenz itself is a town of two parts, one a delightful pedestrianised shopping area the bregenz other a historical old town with cobbled streets and magnificant views of the surrounding mountains including those towards Lake Constance. The waterfront area is the location of local railway station and promenade area, including the venue for the many cultural events held over the summer.
English is widely spoken and the shops are friendly

In celebration of the twenty year anniversary of the twinning of Bregenz and Bangor, a Mayoral Delegation, led by white crossCouncillor Dr. Stephen Farry MLA, travelled to Bregenz. The delegation was based, 2 - 5 November 2007, at the excellent Hotel WeiBes Kreuz (White Cross Hotel). This centrally located hotel was ideal being within walking distance to Rathhaus (Town Hall) museum and the all important shops.

The warmth of the welcome from our Bregenz hosts was exceptional as we sought to fulfill our engagements during the visit. The engagements included welcome ceremony at Bregenz Rathaus, guided tour of the Angelika Kauffmann exhibition (delivered with infectious enthusiasm), Gala Dinner on the Gebhardsberg with people from Bregenz, Church service in St Kolumban (St Columbanus) location of the stone from angelikaBangor and a tour of the surrounding areas of Vorarlberg.

 The Gala Dinner was breathtaking, not sure here if I am referring to the views, welcome or the food. In reality it was all three. We were greeted at this historic castle, by a fire-eater, knight in shining armour and worringly by a young lady armed with an axe who threatened to behead our Chief Executive and Mayor, fearful of reprisals we didnt object. Some, perhaps, offered encouragement! We were entertained by artists from both Bregenz and Ulster, one local group played an instrument that looked like bagpipes with a trumpet attached which was a real novelty for us. Our local harpist was also greeted with enthusiasm. Greeted with even more gusto if that wereMarsden Fitzsimons possible, was Alderman Marsden Fitsimons. Marsden entertained with the songs of Percy French. Following the superb meal, speeches and exchange of gifts a cake was presented in celebration of our twenty years of friendship.

In addition we were treated to a number of unofficial events particularly a walking tour around Bregenz Waterfront by Burgermeister (Mayor) Markus Linhart who brought us up to date on the improvements to Bregenz waterfront and highlighted their plans to upgrade the harbour area.

For those of us keen to retain the green belt around Bangor, Burgermeister Linhart also pointed out the many green areas his Council had fought successfuly to retain on the nearby Pfander mountain contrasting the developments on such areas by their neighbours. Burgermeister Linhart suggested that only the rich could afford such housing but all Bregenzers could enjoy the open spaces. Markus also described the efforts made to combat flooding from Bodenzee highlighting underground pumping stations and pointing out the increased level of the promenade compared with the town.

We really cannot begin to list all those who made our visit so memorable but special mention must go to Monika, who travelled all the way to Zurich to greet us, Elizabeth and Alexandra (even if she did call me the paparazzi).

With final thanks to the Council and people of Bregenz.

Bregenz Council
Gebhardsberg
Pfaender